Latin American Immigration and the U.S. Immagration Policy

Immigration has always been a contentious issue in the United States. Benjamin Franklin thought that the influx in German immigration would flush out the predominately British culture in America at the time. (5) Furthermore, a continual wave of foreign cultures began pouring into the American metropolitan areas at the turn of the 20th century. The migration of Italians, Poles, and Jews across the Atlantic Ocean began a mass assimilation of cultural ideology and customs into the United States, yet many people thought that these migrants could not adapt. Today, the American society has become a melting pot of foreign influence; however, many cynics remain skeptical about the incorporation of Latin American people and their influences. Accordingly, these same critics are just as naïve as their previous counterparts, who refused to accept the many gifts and contributions these immigrants have to offer. We must ask ourselves: How long will it take to peacefully incorporate Spanish immigrants into American society? America was built on the movement of these cultures, and the current population of this country must set aside its non-democratic premonitions, and embrace the historical and positive aspect of Latin American immigration.

Spanish influence is prevalent in every corner of the United States. From music and art, to architecture and food, Spanish influence has become an increasingly popular lifestyle in America. Although these influences have been accepted into the American mainstream, the people that brought them are not. Critics believe that Latin American immigration has become a nuisance to federal aid programs, and the `ever-so-steady' job market. (11) This assumption reiterates the clear ignorance on beha...

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