Paul Johnson is a professor of social work at the University of Southern Maine. Originally from the UK, he moved to the United States in 1986 and became a U.S. citizen 10 years later in 1996.

I acquired citizenship in the United States of America on June 6, 1996. A multitude of individuals, numbering in the hundreds, were present at the Brooklyn College immigration ceremony, making this momentous decision.

I found myself wondering some things throughout the ceremony. From which country did each person originate? What are they relinquishing? The reason this question came to mind is that the decision to become a citizen is not taken lightly, as it requires renouncing oaths taken to foreign powers. I remember standing in the audience at the ceremony, reflecting on the perceived loss of my upbringing, culture, values and beliefs.

Furthermore, several key prerequisites must be met to qualify for citizenship.

1) Be at least 18 years of age.
2) Be a green card holder for a certain number of years.
3) Establish residency in the state where they intend to reside.
4) Have a good moral character.
5) Be proficient in basic spoken and written English, and demonstrate knowledge of U.S. history and government.
6) Register for military service (if male of a certain age).
7) Swear allegiance to the United States.

The misconception is that people just want to live in the United States so that they can take advantage of the benefits the country has to offer. However, there is no meaningful discussion of the reasons why people come to the United States.

There are numerous reasons why people immigrate to the United States. Some choose to; however, many come because they are fleeing their homelands, because of war, political violence, poverty or starvation. We have devised many terms to describe these individuals: refugees, asylum seekers and resident aliens.

All of these labels are negative, unwelcoming and suggest that there is something inherently wrong with the individual. One should appreciate that the United States was willing to accommodate them. This theme is further illustrated by the contributions of immigrants in the workforce.

Like many others, I accepted any job opportunities that came my way. While it is true that numerous immigrants fulfill vital roles in our economy, it is essential to recognize that immigration encompasses much more than just economic factors. Immigrants contribute significantly beyond mere labor.

They bring fresh perspectives, diverse experiences, unique skills and cultural richness that strengthen our communities. Acknowledging this broader value fosters a more inclusive and respectful narrative surrounding immigration.

In recent months, immigrants have faced characterization as violent individuals, criminals and those with mental illness. There have even been claims suggesting that they’re “poisoning the blood of our country.”

These statements are fundamentally flawed and do not accurately represent the facts. The majority of immigrants are hardworking individuals who occupy roles that many U.S. citizens are reluctant to fill. They frequently work evenings, weekends and overnight shifts, often receiving compensation that is considerably lower than that of their American counterparts.

At the same time, immigrants contribute to society by paying taxes, strengthening local economies and enriching the communities in which we reside.

Ultimately, we find love, marry, start a family, pursue better career opportunities, further our education and earn advanced degrees. We are not malevolent individuals. Rather, like many who have come before us, we are hardworking and dedicated to enhancing our lives while giving back to our communities and respective states.

The United States is undeniably a nation of immigrants. For centuries, people have come to this country not just seeking a better life for themselves, but also striving to enhance the nation as a whole.