Flickinger’s column was shameful
Tom Flickinger’s xenophobic May 14 column, “Today’s immigrants not interested in assimilating,” was shameful.
He charged that “liberal America” accommodates the wishes of many immigrants not to speak English and live in neighborhoods that the police won’t patrol because they are too dangerous. He called these people, whom he admitted are coming to America seeking refuge, “displaced tribes,” and said they will not add to the value of a great nation. Perhaps he should consider New York City, where 40 percent of residents come from other countries and over 200 languages are spoken, and it’s considered the greatest city in the world.
Flickinger’s unsubstantiated accusations and divisive rhetoric only lead to more unwarranted discrimination. We have always been a country that was built by and welcomes others. Flickinger should also consider that the freedom he so richly enjoys is the result of the sacrifices of the immigrants he derides.
Bob Willison
Rices Landing