Statue of Liberty & Immigration
Statue of Liberty & Immigration
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Introduction
Immigration into the US has been a historical and contemporary issue that draws a lot of reaction and debates. Those opposed to blatant and rampant immigration cite loss of opportunities to the existing citizens and possibility of security breaches and enhancement of human trafficking. Nevertheless, the desire to move to America, a journey that started centuries back, owing to the discovery of the New Land, has to date been driven by a number of factors. Notably, the immigrants in the medieval times were fleeing from religious intolerance Europe, while some came for adventure and commercial activities. Today, though the religious factor is not the major drive for immigration, the relatively liberal practices that exist in the US based on respect of fundamental freedoms and individual liberty, form basis for immigration. This liberty is symbolically depicted by the Statue of Liberty.
Discussion
The desire to migrate in the US, more so between 17th and 19th centuries was motivated by the need for religious tolerance and respect of freedom of worship. Since this promise was not forthcoming, many people moved from Europe to America. As such, America provided the perfect place for the religious immigrants to freely practice their Christianity without undue interference. This saw the emergence of such names as New England, clearly indicating the urge to begin life a fresh in a freer environment. The America thus offered the best place devoid of religious persecution. It was therefore a lifetime achievement to land in the American coast for the immigrants, who quickly adopted the country’s way of life, changed their names and renounced their original citizenship.
Erection of the Statue of Liberty in late 19th century was carried out to inform the whole world that the US is a sovereign country that has respect for liberty. Its strategic location on Ellis Island, a route used by many immigrants was aimed at welcoming them and sending a clear message that liberty is of paramount importance. The liberty here is depicted by the artistic design that shows a flaming torch and spikes that show power.
Another connection between the Statue of Liberty and immigration is based on the crown worn by the monument. With the seven spikes in the head, the statue depicts diversity and need for unity. As such, the immigrants are people from all the seven continents who have come together to form a powerful nation that respect each persons ideals. As a matter of fact, the American multiculturalism is characterized by such groups as Jews, Chinese, Europeans, Africans and Latinos among others. This shows that the uniting factor among the people of diverse origin is tolerance that comes with liberty.
The immigrants are also greeted by the inscription on the statue that indicates the date when the US attained independence. As such, the date would act as a reminder to the immigrants that the liberty that is being enjoyed was not accidental or achieved easily. Rather, the immigrants would appreciate the role played by the Americans and other earlier immigrants to make the nation free from slavery and colonial yoke.
In conclusion, the Statue of Liberty is a very significant landmark in the US that communicates the desires and aspirations of the people. Thus, the immigrants have been able not only to understand the history of the US dating to slavery, discovery of New Land and European crusades, but also to strive to maintain the gained freedoms. As such, many people today move to the US because of the respect of liberty that is enshrined in the constitution under the Bill of Rights. Every citizen thus desires to observe and keep the aspirations of the people as depicted in the stature of liberty.
