Two hundred and fifty years ago, George Washington took a disorganized ragamuffin group of immigrants and harnessed the power of their longing for freedom to forge what most Americans feel is the greatest country ever created. Abraham Lincoln stood firmly for the principle that anyone, no matter how illegally brought to our country, had a right to those same freedoms. This country was built by immigrants motivated by the promise of opportunity and liberty, also known as the “American dream.” When we remember our greatest presidents, let us also remember our shared American dream.

 

My German immigrant grandparents sailed past the Lady of the Harbor in the early 1900s. They embraced the American dream with courage and intense dedication to hard work, family, and freedom. Their son, my father, became a physician who was also dedicated to the values inherent in the American dream. He instilled the same in me. I have noticed that first- and second-generation immigrants are often people who share these values; they are grateful to be here and express that gratitude by contributing so much.

 

 

– From Canada: A first-generation man – who we placed in several different positions over 25 years – now works for a large foundation supporting the COO.

– From China: A first-generation young woman who came alone to America to marry an American she met in Shanghai. She worked for us for two years in data entry and administrative support.

– From India: Second-generation graduate at top of her class worked as a junior admin in financial services. We placed her as an Executive Assistant to the CEO of a start-up. We helped her with the IPO and now she is that CEO’s Chief of Staff.

– From Mexico: Second-generation woman who was the first in her family to graduate from college – with honors from Stanford no less. We placed her as the Executive Assistant to the CEO of a major tech company. Throughout her career, she also volunteered, working with those in underserved neighborhoods.

– From Singapore: First-generation woman who came alone to the US, self-supported, and graduated with honors. We placed her as the Executive Assistant to the Director of a nonprofit organization.

I am so inspired by the national outcry that is emerging in support of our immigrants today. Studies have shown that there is less crime in the immigrant population than in the general population and that their productivity and contributions to our economy are critical for many sectors of the economy. Yes, do “give us your tired and your huddled masses,” for it is their energy, perseverance, and contributions to their new community that has made America great – as it was in the past, is right now, and will be in the future!

 

The challenge of these times is bigger than most of us have experienced.  We are called to personally contribute as much as possible to help where we are able. Sending a collective wish to each of you for courage and strength…