Can an immigration policy initiate and motivate a nation’s population to accept migrants on a large scale?

BY STEVEN KASZAB

Looking carefully at the picture you will see a tree with two to three different types of fruit growing from it. Grafted by a creative horticulturist these plants are miracles of nature with a little help from us. Such trees should exemplify our immigration system in totality.

Immigration has been the lifeblood of generations in most nations as many populations’ fertility rates remain stagnant or tumble downward. The economy’s growth rate, the ability of a nation to service their seniors and other citizens is dependent upon immigration. The question that causes the most fuss tends to be the kind of immigrant a nation wants.

Economic migrants are selected to become permanent residents for their ability to contribute financially to the host nation, be that through labour, investments, or employment creation capabilities.

Family class seeks to unit families and bring social stability to the host nation and families.

Refugee class has become the most discussed perhaps particularly because some citizens are suspicious of the refugee’s claims and motivations.

Many temporary workers become residents of their host nations after many years of toil and hard work.

Can an immigration policy initiate and motivate a nation’s population to accept and help mold migrants on a large scale? America and Canada once accepted most at their doors hoping to get their fill of the American-Canadian dream. Millions flowed in these nations being molded by the present society, and in time helped to mold society itself by adding each migrant’s unique essence to the melting pot of nations. Our society evolves continually introducing its respectful ways to the many cultures, faiths and creeds of these migrants.

Like a tree with multiple fruits, our nation allows each group to remain itself, while transforming over time to become an essential part of the greater tree. Unique cultures, beliefs and faiths evolve within the greater group while the essence of being American, or Canadian remains the same…seekers of freedom while being respectful and industrious in this freedom application.

Being different while remaining a neighbour, friend, or colleague to others with different backgrounds makes being Canadian, or American a great challenge, a dream come true for many millions of us.