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Recently a good friend of mine became a U.S. citizen, one of 28 persons from 23 countries. I find great hope in this, for my friend but also for this country.
The United States is, in many ways, a nation of immigrants. To be sure, our history is painful and shameful — it includes slaughter of Indigenous people, enslavement of millions of others, unjust treatment of many. But it also includes a welcome to persons from across the world, great opportunity and openness, strength and new spirit as immigrants have joined American society.
The Trump administration, as it slashes research funding and overseas aid, fires federal workers and dismantles government departments, and cuts services for veterans and children, is also trying to erase our history. It is attempting to deny the diversity, equity and inclusion upon which we are built. It is, I believe unjustly, challenging visas and trying to deport immigrants whose passion, voice, work and ideas enrich our nation.
But no amount of scrubbing federal websites, changing school curricula, or denying DEI and civil rights programs can erase the truth. The United States has much to atone for, and also much to celebrate. There is racism in our past and present, and there is also inclusion, learning, joy. There is the possibility for new understanding and lifting one another up.
Going forward, I hope we can build a country that embraces differences and works for all. And now we are 28 citizens stronger.
Mary Miller
Oakfield
