This poem was originally published in November, 2018. It has been updated in a few places to enhance the message. Witness the impact of America’s open door to immigrants with this poem.
Images of immigrants arriving at America’s shores
Families hope the United States offers much more
Huddled and crowded together on ships bound for another land
Dreaming of moving forward and receiving an outstretched hand
Most Americans trace immigrants back to their family roots
Their ancestors arrived ready to energize lives with a boost
Singer Neil Sedaka proclaims the immigrants’ anxious arrival
“The Immigrant” sings of America waiting, without any denial
Coming to America is immortalized as Neil Diamond sings
“America” tells a fascinating story that only his lyrics bring
Both Sedaka and Diamond write beautiful and appropriate text
America can do better than people shouting, “You are not next”
Imagine the excitement felt upon seeing Lady Liberty
She has welcomed people to America for an eternity
Her torch offers a brilliant beacon of new hope and light
America extends a welcoming hand, ending their plight
This openhearted Lady, gifted from France, stands solemn
She invites the less fortunate to disembark in long columns
Emma Lazarus, an offspring of immigrants, expresses it best
Her poetic words in “The New Colossus” surely pass the test
Her inspiring words paint an ironic and emotional image for all
To see how a mighty Lady and America will forever stand tall
America’s melting pot overflows from a gentle and peaceful place
Tales from immigrants deserve to be heard without undue haste
Immigration has recently become a passionate, national debate
America’s history shows patience in opening its welcome gate
The lyrics of “The Immigrant” can be found at Neil Sedaka.
The lyrics of “America” can be found at Neil Diamond.
The verses of “The New Colossus” can be found at Emma Lazarus.