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.  

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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

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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.