I immigrated to the United States in 1987. At the time, I didn’t know I was immigrating. I was simply on an adventure and a search for the deeper meaning of Jazz. The world was a different place. This country was a different place. In many ways it seemed safer – but it wasn’t. There seemed to be less gun-toting lunatics around but everyone I knew who lived in New York had been mugged at some point. Maybe it felt better because there was less accountability and reporting of crime. If you were young and restless, you could put a backpack on and navigate your way across the country. It was easier for a man to do this, but I came across many brave women explorers – without iPhones, Google Maps, and AirBnB.
Most of the explorers I met along the way were not American. They were mostly people searching for something better. A future. We all knew that this place, The United States, was the best place you could come to, and if you were creative, dedicated, and worked hard enough, you had so much opportunity to realize your dreams. And yes, being a white, native-English-speaking man gave me a huge advantage. I know that. But I also know that the day I went to obtain my citizenship, I stood with people of nearly every race, religion, and gender. They knew that opportunity and huddle could trump almost any prejudice. That’s why they came here. Native-born Americans have no idea how fortunate they are.
This is America. Our America. The oldest standing democracy in the world.
A country built by generations of immigrants as far back as its founding. A melting pot. A global beacon of hope. A banner of progress.
Yes, we may often fall short and make our mistakes, but our open arms and vision for a better future lay the foundation for this place that we call home. I am proud and honored to be a part of that.
Happy Independence Day.
Let’s do this.
-Shaun