Statue doesn't dictate immigration policy

The recent letters about the Statue of Liberty make it seem appropriate to mention the history of U.S. immigration. Between 1783 and the early 1800s, the government begged for immigrants to come and build up the population as quickly as possible. There were no immigration laws through the 1800s. Anyone could simply walk in and set up residence.

Immigration became a problem at the beginning of the 1900s. There were not enough jobs and many were homeless and on the streets. That was when the first laws were passed to regulate and control immigration. It was a necessity.

I never thought that the Statue of Liberty was meant to dictate our immigration policy. Immigration has to be regulated and limited because, as recognized 100 years ago, the U.S. cannot support everyone who wants to come and cannot solve all the problems of the world.

There has to be defense against immigration that abuses our country.

Rich Lorimer

Streamwood