The controversy over the final disposition of the 27.5 acre Ellis Island tract has been long and sometimes bitter. It is my hope that we will reach a solution by enacting this legislation. It is only fitting that we provide some monument for those that have given so much to this country. The more than 16 million immigrants who passed through the Ellis Island station between 1892 and 1954 have given of themselves to make this country grow and prosper. The establishment of a national memorial on this island will serve to beautify the entire approach of New York bay. In my own State. plans are already under way to construct a waterfront park across from this island.
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immigrants