Not All Immigrants Are the Same!
I was catching up with an old friend recently when he bluntly asked why I support Brazilian immigrants, especially considering my background as a Gulf War veteran and conservative. He assumed my love for our country meant I’d agree with his stance. “First, they break into the country,” he said, “then they use up all our resources. They sell drugs, commit crimes, and harm citizens. How could you want them to stay?”
I paused and told him, “I support our immigrant community because I love my country and see the value they add to our local communities and the nation as a whole. But you have to understand—not all immigrants are the same.” My friend, though wellmeaning, holds views that don’t represent all Americans, but they do reflect a segment of our society that views immigration with skepticism. I ask my fellow Cape Codders to consider another perspective on immigrants, particularly our local Brazilian community.
The Myth of “Breaking Into” the Country
I firmly support securing our borders, but the notion that immigrants are “breaking in” oversimplifies a complex issue. Policies in recent years have effectively invited people from every nations in the world to seek new lives here. The current administration has made entry into the country easier, regardless of background, skill set, or potential impact on society. This has led to legitimate concerns, as some individuals crossing the border include violent criminals and those with questionable backgrounds.
Yet the vast majority are decent, hardworking people who want to contribute to the betterment of our country through hard work and American values. If you have concerns about the hordes of un vetted immigrants pouring into the country, your issue is with the policies that created this situation, not the individuals who are simply trying to make a life. after all if I had the opportunity to move north for a much better life for my family while the country turned a blind eye for my entry I would be the first in line to cross our border. Let’s remember: not all immigrants are the same.
Are Immigrants Draining Resources?
It’s true that some immigrants need extensive support. Those from impoverished countries lack literacy even in their own language, they work skills, work ethics and other personal resources to easily assimilation and become good citizens. But consider this: Cape Cod’s Brazilian community represents a different kind of immigrant story.
Brazilians here don’t rely on free housing or government aid. They don’t have meals delivered to their rooms and get a money allowance for spending as many recent immigrants do. Instead They arrive with a strong work ethic, with high school diplomas, trade skills, and many with college degrees. They’re ready to take any job available to support themselves and their families. Those of us who work alongside Cape Cod Brazilians know they add strength and resilience to our local economy. This is why brazillians are the least burden on our local economy and many do exceptional well in business. Again, not all immigrants are the same.
The Assumption of Violence
The stereotype that immigrants bring drugs and violence is true. Certain immigrants come from regions with high crime, and yes, some who cross the border do engage in criminal activity. But this stereotype overlooks the countless immigrants who do not engage in criminal behavior. The Brazilian community, for instance, is deeply rooted in family and faith. Many Brazilians in Cape Cod spend their time working, raising families, and engaging in their church communities. They don’t even have time to engage in illegal activities. In my 30 years knowing Brazilians on Cape Cod I have never known a drug oriented drug dealer or one dealing within criminal activities.
While of course every culture has their bad apples Brazil is no different. Cape cod Brazilians are exceptionally law abiding . What they do bring is a commitment to family and faith—you only need to look at the vibrant Brazilian churches all over Hyannis and the rest of Cape Cod. Once again, not all immigrants are the same.
Toward a Common-Sense Immigration Policy
With the incoming administration’s stance on mass deportations, we’re bound to see dramatic changes in our immigrant communities.. I hope we take a commonsense approach that distinguishes between law-abiding, self-sufficient immigrants verse those who pose a legitimate threat or are likely to place financial burden on our society. For the productive immigrants who are already contributing, let’s encourage them to integrate fully. And for those engaged in crime or unable to support themselves, a deportation is well in order in my opinion.
Not every immigrant is a burden to us; in fact, most are not. The Cape Cod Brazilian community has proven themselves as a positive influence within our community, showing that “immigrant” does not mean the same thing for everyone. Let’s not treat all immigrants the same—because they’re not the same.