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A Sign of Hope?
Would I have made it across the island? How did my ancestors make it in? Is this how we want to remember America?
To many Americans the Statue of Liberty is a symbol of the country. A symbol of freedom. Years ago, this grand lady was a symbol of a new beginning, hope for the future, but also fear. America was the land of freedom and was a place many yearned to go. Yet, would they make it into the country?
Ellis Island made it difficult for foreigners to call America home. Despite this difficulty, did it protect the country from disease outbreaks? Nope, people still got sick, people still died. Crime? Crime still existed in this great country. What was the purpose of this great gate then? How did it affect families?
Families were separated because of Ellis Island. Some were traveling to join their family members already in the country, others were trying to start a family in the new place. Families who traveled the thousands of miles across sea together, were suddenly separated at this spot.
I can only imagine what distress this caused families. How can someone recover from this? It’s hard enough with a family member dying. A family member that you simply cannot see would be very difficult.
Ellis Island also allowed America to become the “Melting Pot” culture it is. It allowed America to be diversified and allowed our ancestors to enter this country. I wish I knew whether my great-great- great grandfather entered via Ellis Island. I think it would be fascinating to return knowing your ancestor walked through these lines, went through the test and became a citizen.
This test is another concern though. If less than a handful of college students who were born and raised in this country could pass this test, how could people years ago? Is it right that we ask such grueling questions before someone can be a citizen of this country? Why should it be more difficult for people to get into this country by sea than birth? Why should intellect be the primary means of judging whether someone can enter the country?
Ellis Island may be a sign of hope or a sign of torture for generations down the road depending on their experience. Yet, France mocked us by gifting us the Statue of Liberty in chains. Oh what a confusing world we live it!