Issues Surrounding Immigrants In The 1920's

In the 1920’s there were significant debates around immigration and the culture that was rising in the United States surrounding immigrants. Immigrants had an effect on several important things such as economics, American ideals, and population growth. Although immigrants seemed to benefit from the growth of many things, there was a huge disagreement over how they should be treated and if they should even be in the US at all. Most Americans accepted them into the US to use them for cheap labor, but many were against this. A large population feared that immigrants would bring their culture along with them and harm the already established American culture. Prejudiced people did not want to be surrounded by immigrant beliefs, saw them as a threat

This gives documentation that immigrants rights are clearly written out in the constitution and that they should be upheld. The source then gives insight on how to maintain the rights of everyone through the political battle of people in power. The writer expresses that, economic or political power is necessary to assert and maintain all "rights." In the midst of any conflict they are not granted by the side holding the economic and political power, except as they may be forced by the strength of the opposition “American Civil Liberties Union”. In order for immigrants' rights to be preserved, there has to be a continuous fight to withhold them. During these times of conflict, ultimately the people in power make the final say in justifying immigrants rights, even though it is clearly outlined in the constitution. This is supported when the union writes, Only by such an aggressive policy of insistence can rights be secured and maintained.“American Civil Liberties

Parish, who is anti-immigration, and Mr. London, who is against restrictive immigration policies. Parish believes immigration should be stopped entirely, he states we should stop immigration entirely until such a time as we can amend our immigration laws....“Congressional Record”. He explains that only those who are aligned with American values should be accepted into our country, and that the laws need to be changed to support that. Parish tries to scare his viewers that Americanism will be taken over by immigrants by expressing, Those who are out of sympathy with our Constitution and the spirit of our Government will be here in large numbers, and the true spirit of Americanism left us by our fathers will gradually become poisoned by this uncertain element “Congressional Record”. His opponent, Mr. London, presents a strong argument that restricting immigration and enacting policies will only harm the US. London addresses the contrasting thoughts by stating, The supporters of the bill claim that the law will keep out radicals. The idea that by restricting immigration you will prevent the influx of radical thought is altogether untenable. “Congressional