Towards a truer Independence Day

On Monday, July 4, the United States of America will celebrate its 240th Independence Day which commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. It was an act of boldness, courage and hope for America's founding fathers as it declared America to be a new nation separate from the ruling British Empire.

As a way to mark this biggest national holiday in the US, there are various festivities held across the country such as the reading of the Declaration of Independence, parades, fireworks, concerts, picnics, etc. One of the most moving celebrations during this day is the welcoming of new American citizens by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. This year alone, 7,000 new citizens say their Oath of Allegiance in nearly 100 ceremonies held across the US between June 30 and July 4. USCIS Director Leon Rodriguez says that "These new Americans will strengthen the fabric of our nation with their contributions to American society and prosperity and be able to enjoy all the rights, privileges and responsibilities of US citizenship."

It is but fitting that the celebration of the US Independence Day is also mixed with the open and outstretched hand of welcome to these newly minted citizens. These new Americans come from various parts of the world, with different beliefs, value system, culture and way of life. Though they may be naturalized, their previous identity from what nation they came from cannot easily be taken away from them. It is just perfectly acceptable that American society not only celebrates their newly acquired citizenship but also celebrates the potentials of their diversity.

Since the arrival of the pilgrims in 1620 until the present time, America has always been the land of freedom, hope and promise. For those who arrived here, America is the place of opportunity where they became what they wanted to be or even more than what they hoped for. For those who want to be here, America is that land waiting for the fulfillment of their dreams. Being a melting pot of various nationalities from all corners of the earth, the uniqueness of these United States is deeply enriched by the diversity of its people. Countless immigrants have made their mark in American society by contributing their talent, skill and knowledge which without a doubt, contributed to the advancement of America as a nation and as a dominant world power.

In a nation where its politicians still struggle to find common ground on how to undertake effective immigration reform, let us be mindful that the needs of the immigrants as well as those of the American society cannot wait until all the debates have settled down. Somehow and at some point, America must bravely confront the challenges of how to address the issues affecting immigration. The opportunity to do this must not only be taken during the election cycle where a strong and influential voting bloc of immigrants must be placated. While there are various ways offered by opposing and different viewpoints, one thing remains clear: For America to survive and thrive, as it has always been, it needs its immigrants just as immigrants need it.

Amidst all the pomp of the festivities of this July 4th celebration, let us also remember that part of American society where some people have not fully felt their own independence. This is the part of America which has not been totally out in the open because of fear of being deported. Or that part of America which is anxiously waiting for their families to join them. Or that part of America worried about their loved ones being separated from them.

As we celebrate Independence Day as we rightfully must, let us also strive hard to protect that freedom and work hard to gain freedom for others. It is only when others too have come to celebrate the freedom we enjoy that we can truly feel the true meaning of independence.

This column is not a substitute for professional legal advice obtained from a US licensed immigration attorney. The information contained herein does not constitute a warranty or guarantee or legal advice regarding a reader's specific immigration case. No attorney-client relationship is and shall be established with any reader.

For any questions, comments and observations, please contact Atty. Marco Tomakin at [email protected]