America, you are better than this. Over the past 200 years, every time life in some other part of the world became unbearable or dangerous, you led the world in welcoming people with open arms. While other countries created immigration laws that only let in people who could prove their "merit," you recognized that the survival drive these people possessed, the drive that allowed them to survive perilous journeys across seas or over deserts was a sign of their merit.
You haven't always lived up to your ideals. Japanese internment, the trail of tears, and our treatment of Mexican migrants over the past 70ish years come to mind. But you have a proud history of recognizing your errors and realizing that the American Dream applies to all people, regardless of where they came from. As long as they are willing to work hard. I refuse to believe that is in the past.
<p> You are better than this. you treated the Italians, the Poles, the Irish, and the Jews like this. But they are all part of the fabric of this nation now, and (for the most part) you have embraced that fact. Mexican and Central American people deserve nothing less. Perhaps dealing with your racist crap is part of the entry fee. Maybe it builds character. Maybe experiencing true ugliness is a job requirement.</p>
<p> For those of you who are afraid these new arrivals will "steal" your jobs, you should be. They are going to take your jobs because they want it more. For 200 years, new arrivals have kicked your ass into gear. They have shaken your sense of entitlement and complacency and woken you up. Without them, you would have atrophied into a third world country. They have provided the vibrancy and youthfulness that has sustained your excellence. They are why you are exceptional.</p>
<p> You should be proud of them because they are you. And now another group of young, hungry, vibrant people have made their way across the desert. They have arrived at your border and they want in. Its time for you to decide. Have you forgotten your past? Will you shut them out? Do you think that will save you? You are better than this.</p>