To the Readers’ Forum:

These days we read about and listen to heated debates regarding immigration and people who are on public assistance. Some people think immigrants, legal or illegal, and the beneficiaries of Medicaid or SNAP are the cause of many problems with today’s economy. They believe they are being cheated by these “takers.”

On the other hand, one could argue that large corporations and the ultra-wealthy are cheating all of us when they get away with paying little or no taxes. Many of these same entities barely pay a living wage to their employees, while their boards of directors reward their CEOs with millions of dollars in salaries and bonuses. Could they reasonably be called “takers?”

Except for Native Americans, we are all descendants of immigrants. Instead of vilifying this group, we should be pressuring both political parties to stop playing games and develop an efficient immigration system. Immigrants have historically enriched and contributed to our country.

My grandparents on both sides were immigrants who came to this country unable to speak the language and knowing little about the culture. They worked hard, raised their families and instilled in us the belief that neighbors helped neighbors. When someone they knew experienced a hardship, they did what they could to help. Whether it was sending food, watching children, or repairing a broken window, they helped.

Not everyone works in an industry with high-paying jobs. Many work, but are unable to make ends meet or are not capable of working at all. Yes, some game the system, and fraudulently obtain benefits. Does that make it right to demean and denigrate those who genuinely need help?

Just about everything today has become a left or right issue. Someone who shows empathy or concern for others is ascribed the pejorative woke by people on the right. And some on the left think every Republican is selfish and ruthless. Ridiculous! People on both sides care about their community and are willing to volunteer, donate, and work to help others.

Each side talks about taking the country back. Back to what? We are in the age of cell phones, social media, and AI. We have no choice but to move forward. But moving forward doesn’t mean we give up our values. We can follow the example set by our immigrant ancestors of relieving another’s distress when we can because it’s the right thing to do.

Sally Myers

Jamestown