Speech #890104793

It is necessary for us to act with determination and speed so that the monument to these citizens may inspire our country in growth and freedom. The accomplishments of these people are legion. It is only fitting that we take steps to create a monument to the first landing place for over 70 percent of our immigrants. Just as the Pilgrims are remembered at Plymouth Rock for their first steps on a new soil so we must pay tribute to our 20th century voyagers whose skills and determination have contributed so much to this country. The conversion of Ellis Island Into a national park site is a fitting tribute to the immigrants of all nations. I can think of no better place for the establishment of such a memorial than in the shadow of the worlds capital the New YorkNew Jersey complex. This area has become the home for many of these immigrants. The contributions of these people are all around us. It seems only just that the cities that they helped build should look down upon this island as a living memorial of their hardships and efforts. I am sure that everyone here is aware of the changing face of the American composite. We are no longer a Nation of purely AngloSaxon heritage. The term "melting pot" does not adequately describe the contributions that our immigrants have made to the development of this Nation. That term carries the connotation of a blendinga sameness. This is not our America of today.