Immigrants achieve goal, benefit nation

A dream came true for 351 people last week when they became U.S. citizens in the largest naturalization ceremony held in Yuma. It was a reminder of the importance of immigrants to our nation.

  Truth be told, immigrants have not always been greeted with open arms in America, despite the fact that we are a nation of immigrants, beginning with the first Europeans to land on our shores and be greeted by Native Americans.

  Over the years as waves of immigrants came from all parts of the world, those who had already arrived and established themselves sometimes felt suspicious of new arrivals who had different customs and different languages. In some cases, the reaction went beyond suspicion and ended in harsh discrimination and even violence toward new arrivals from foreign shores.

  Even today, there are some who feel too many immigrants are allowed into our nation and that they threaten our culture.

  That is unfortunate because immigrants bring much good with them. Often they are hard workers who prize the opportunities available to them in America. They bring fresh ideas and varied cultural values that enrich our culture, much like a soup is made better when ingredients and spices are added.

  Our nation is stronger and richer because immigrants have contributed so much. At the same time, people around the world continue to recognize the unique freedoms and opportunities that await them here. Both sides benefit.

  It is easy to understand why those taking part in the naturalization ceremony here were smiling and, yes, crying in joy at their achievement. For many, it was one of the most important days in their lives.

  We welcome them and others who want to help make America even greater.