Speech #890089519

I had the distinct pleasure to be present at the White House when President Johnson issued a proclamation adding Ellis Island to the Statue of Liberty National Monument. In issuing this proclamation that this tiny island in New York Bay become a part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument. President Johnson took cognizance of the fact that it has a deep significance for over 16 million immigrants who first set foot upon American soil when they arrived at historic Ellis Island. This event. at the White House. was more than just an invitation to me to be present at a ceremonial event. It was a memorable occasion because my parents. both immigrants from Poland. first set foot upon the land of the free and the home of the brave. when they landed at Ellis Island. Ellis Island came Into Federal possession in the year 1800. The Federal Bureau of Immigration took over the facilities of the island in 1890 to develop it as an immigration station. and. between 1892 and 1954. when the use of Ellis Island as an immigration depot was discontinued. nearly 70 percent of all the immigrants coming to these shores used this island as a steppingstone to a better way of life. The greatness of America has come in no small measure from the millions who passed through the gates and doors of Ellis Island. They came seeking freedom. liberty and refuge from the unsettled condition of their homeland. with high hopes of finding peace of mind and heart. America has offered opportunity to all who dreamed and hoped for that one new and better chance to improve their lot. and found it waiting for them in America. The immigrants who passed through Ellis Island and who have attained prominence in our country made a very significant contribution to the rise of the United States to a position of world power. America has grown to greatness because its people have a full right to citizenship throughout the Nation. They have the right to choose their position in life. be it high or lowa life of failure or success.