Letters

Until recently, I have been in favor of immigrants being allowed into this country to realize the American dream, just as my four Italian grandparents did.

However, I am also a practical person. I know that having an overwhelming number of people who don’t speak the language and who cannot be easily integrated into the culture arriving in any country unprepared for them will promote chaos. Laws cannot be enforced amid chaos.

For years, my European friends have told me that the influx of unrestricted immigration in Europe has led to the popularity of many right-wing extremist leaders. It is apparent to me that the same thing is happening in this country. Exactly the same thing. Immigration has become the perfect platform for extreme right-wing politicians to run on.

We must remove immigration as a platform for extremists to use to scare people. Donald Trump knows how effective this is — that’s why he made certain that the bipartisan bill that included immigration reform was squashed last week.

For the safety and well-being of our country, we must recognize that immigration is no longer a moral issue, it is a political one. Many of those from other countries seeking to live here, even asylum seekers, will be collateral damage. However, it is now apparent to me that the choice to limit and restrict immigrants into this country is absolutely necessary to preserve our democracy.

Paula Angelone, Ph.D.

Southampton Village