History reminds us that the arrival of new ethnic groups into the United States, outside of the Pilgrims, were each met with hostility and extreme prejudice. The Irish were subjected to employment difficulties with signs "Irish need not apply". However, they were the main laborers building the Erie Canal. The conditions were harsh and many died. The Chinese were also not welcomed but built the most of the railroads in California, again under extreme hardships and dangers resulting in many deaths. Puerto Ricans were not received with open arms either, just watch "West Side Story". In fact, Puerto Ricans did not ask or wait on line to become American citizens. In March of 1917, an act of Congress granted citizenship and two months later 20,000 non-English speaking residents were drafted into military service in support of WW 1. These are historical facts, not "alternative" facts. However folks, this is the 21st Century and education should have taught us to stop repeating somethings in history. Each new ethnic group has made a tremendous contribution to this nation. My apologies to the ethnic groups I did not cover. Finally folks, keep your eyes on the bouncing ball. Remember the pipelines where the Native Americans are again losing their lands. Protesters can now legally be run over by "accident and not intentional". Oil companies do not have to report oil spillage and the aftermath of such (drinking water). We gotta stay focused and not allow "alternative facts" to obscure the truth. Today is tomorrow's history. What will it say about us?
