President. no more important question can engage our attention. and none should receive more earnest and thoughtful consideration. than one which seeks to guard and preserve the high standard of our population and citizenship. No policy. however venerable. no mere sentimental considerations should dissuade us from dealing with an evil which menaces our civilization. and in a manner compatible with the best interests of the country and all its people. The pending bill. sir. throws an additional safeguard about our population and citizenship by imposing a moderate and reasonable educational test upon all immigrants over 16 years of age and physically capable. The immigrant must be able to read and write the Constitution of the United States in some language before admission. An exception is made. however. in the case of a person over 50 years of age. the parent or grandparent of a qualified immigrant above 21 years of age and who is capable of supporting such parent or grandparent. Although illiterate. such relatives may accompany or be sent for and come to join the family of a child or grandchild over 21 years of age. qualified and capable. A wife or minor child. though unable to read and write. may likewise accompany or be sent for to join the husband or parent who is qualified and capable. The closest and strongest ties of kinship thus remain unbroken. This measure does not prevent the immigration of the intelligent people of every landwho wish to make their homes here. and who will become worthy and desirable citizens of the Republic. It is not racial in its discriminating purpose. it does not forbid the coming of any race. it proscribes no nationality. itis proscriptive of ignorance. and of that only. It is founded upon the broad and patriotic theory that to further augment illiteracy in this country is unwise. and that illiteracy is an unstable and undesirable foundation upon which to rest this mighty fabric of government.
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immigrants immigration immigrant