The American Dream on MLK Day
MLK Day is a federal holiday marking the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. It is observed on the third Monday of January each year, but Dr King's actual birthday is on January 15.
Martin Luther King Jr. was the chief spokesperson for nonviolent activism during the Civil Rights Movement, which protested racial discrimination in federal and state law.
Due in part to Dr. King's efforts, the United States passed the Civil Rights Act in 1964 that banned discrimination based on "race, color, religion, or national origin" in employment practices and public accommodations; and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, that restored and protected voting rights.
Civil Rights legislation also included the Immigration and Nationality Services Act of 1965 that opened entry to the U.S. to immigrants from Mexico and other non-European countries; and the Fair Housing Act of 1968, that banned racial discrimination in the sale or rental of housing.
“Immigrants come to this country because they believe in the American Dream. Those who were brought here as children without documents call themselves ‘DREAMers’ as they pray for the chance to become citizens. They and their parents- and all immigrants- believe in a just and fair democracy and have not given up the hope of living, working, and fulfilling their dreams as American citizens,” the National Immigration Law Center shared in a statement. “For Dr. King and others who bravely fought for civil rights a half-century ago, we are mindful that the work for racial and economic justice continues.”
The immigration reform dream
Dr. King’s achievements created a wave of inspiration and change that still resonates today. As the U.S. grapples with the need for immigration reform to offset the large worker shortage that important industries, from manufacturing to healthcare, are facing across the country, the core message of this peaceful leader is the answer.
Dr. King said, “hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
Support for immigration and immigration reform reflects a love for this country which was built by immigrants and continues to be supported by them.
As immigration lawyer Tahmina Watson wrote in an editorial for Above the Law, “If we want to change society, if we want to see changes big or small, we need to have more love. But within that notion of love, I have come to realize that love for self is the starting point. If people loved themselves more, they cannot help but love others. They cannot help but want everyone to live well.”
In a pandemic world, the notion of community was tested. Each of us has the opportunity to create stronger, loving, communities now that want the best for everyone. For us at OPA showing support to eligible immigrants wanting to become citizens is a daily mission of love that fills us with joy and pride.
If you know an immigrant seeking to complete their USCIS process but struggling with funding, share our loan information with them. And if you are ready to bring love into communities, join our movement by investing with OPA.
