Honoring the Contributions of Immigrants to America
June is Immigration Heritage Month. During this month, let us remember the generations of immigrants who helped build and shape our nation. From our earliest days, immigrants have contributed to the making of America. They served in the Revolution, printed the Declaration of Independence, designed and built the White House, just to name a few.
In June, we honor our flag and commemorate the end of slavery. Our flag represents the unity of the states, the sacrifices made to preserve liberty, and the enduring ideals of democracy and freedom. On Juneteenth, all Americans are reminded that the pursuit of liberty and equal justice continues for all people.
The Statue of Liberty, a gift from France, is a powerful symbol of America. Standing proudly in New York Harbor, it symbolizes hope, opportunity, and welcome to generations of immigrants who came seeking freedom and a better life.
On Ellis Island, in the shadow of Lady Liberty, Annie Moore from Ireland was welcomed to our shores. Millions have followed her arriving in America seeking freedom, opportunity, and a better life for their families.
Together, the American flag and the Statue of Liberty express the spirit and promise of America. The flag symbolizes the nation and the sacrifices made to defend freedom, while Lady Liberty represents hope, human dignity, and opportunity for all.
Immigration Heritage Month
During this Immigration Heritage Month, let us remember that our country has benefitted from the diverse cultures and traditions, courage and sacrifices of immigrant families. For Irish Americans, Immigrant Heritage Month carries special significance: Irish immigrants came to America seeking freedom from famine, poverty, and political oppression. Through faith, determination, and hard work, they helped build railroads, cities, churches, schools, and communities while serving honorably in the armed forces and public service.
Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame,
With conquering limbs astride from land to land;
Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand
A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame
Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name
Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand
Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command
The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.
“Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!” cries she
With silent lips. “Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!”
November 2, 1883, The American flag and the Statue of Liberty stand together as symbols of freedom, hope, unity, and the enduring promise of America. Let us continue to welcome and share that promise; let the words of The New Colossus, by Emma Lazarus, continue to welcome new immigrants:
Remember, all Americans were immigrants at one time. Happy Immigrant Heritage Month.
