Portfolio I - Informative Essay 1 Marcela Black Eng1010-063 Aliens are not the enemy. Regardless of their hostile attitudes, scary appearances or austere looks, there is never a good reason to be repelled by them. Some U.S. Nationals suppose that because of their savage, brute, and unpolished character, immigrants should be treated as invaders and always be kept out. Others are plainly afraid of newcomers taking over America. Talking about foreign immigrants is such a controversial topic that can definitely cause confusion of beliefs, ideals, and principles. It is widely believed that those who support them only do it due to ignorance, but the fact is those who reject alien immigration only repel it due to their own fear and weariness of the unknown. When it comes to antagonizing illegals, the most vocal and malicious are always the most ignorant. There is plenty of rejection directed towards aliens; even the already established immigrants, who are now part of the American society, choose to oppose their cultural origins. And while some will always remain loyal supporters of immigration, they should not condone the fact that immigrants are changing the American culture. Diversity is good for any society. A community with varied cultural influences has a richer background and can produce a much more enhanced culture. Individuals who are exposed to different traditions and cultural backgrounds are more prone to enjoy all the wonders the world has to offer, they are usually more open minded and successful in life. Also, having the knowledge and experience of how difficult living in a third-world country can be, immigrants have a more grateful attitude towards accomplishments, material possessions, and goals achieved. Americans have a very competitive personality and may only benefit from learning about such an appreciative take in life. This may even help change the all ‘deserving’ American attitude, and allow them to live without harboring feelings of resentment towards those who become more successful in life. Portfolio I - Informative Essay 2 Marcela Black Eng1010-063 Religion is something that clearly separates America from other countries. America is a God-fearing culture and should not be influenced by pagans and atheists. The American Constitution has always been based on freedom of religion, but a few events in the recent history of the United States demonstrate that religion fanaticism (which is commonly originated in foreign countries) can be very dangerous and even mortal when left uncontrolled. Some religions are extremist and violent and ought to be closely monitored. Take those religions where women are asked to wear odd dress styles and required to cover their faces in public, for example. These are not customs of the American way of life, and as such, should be restricted or banished. Clothing, traditions, or holidays belonging to other countries, should not be allowed here. Foreign holidays such as: the beginning of the Chinese year, Cinco de Mayo, Victoria Day, or Hanukkah, have no place in the American holiday calendar. Observing foreign holidays would only permit the alteration of traditions that should be otherwise be aimed towards inciting the patriotism of America and promoting its culture. Language is another barrier that will need to be broken. Chinese population in America cannot ask that their logographic writing system be used instead of the regular Latin alphabet system, nor can Brazilians expect everyone to learn Portuguese to be able to communicate with them. Unfortunately, one can already see the American culture changing. Examples can be found everywhere: bilingual signs, advertising, and commercial labeling. All of which are attempting to ‘make things easier’ for immigrants. Americans should not be ‘helping’ immigrants stay in their old ways, but rather encourage them to change and adapt to their new home. Aliens should recall the popular phrase “When in Rome, do as the Romans do” to remember what needs to be done while visiting or living in a foreign land. Immigrants should adapt to the “American Style” not all the other way around. It is imperative that candidates for Portfolio I - Informative Essay 3 Marcela Black Eng1010-063 citizenship learn English, dress the part, and act American in every sense of the word before they can even be considered. The American culture and its foundations must remain unaffected to be preserved. American traditions and culture are designed to promote patriotism and should be left intact. When immigrants start planning their move to America, they should also be planning on a complete internal transformation. They need to leave their bad attitudes and bad habits home. Those bad attitudes and habits have (over the years) obviously contributed to bring down their society, making their country’s situation subpar. A change in attitude, dedication, and commitment levels, ought to be attained in order to truly become American. Alien immigrants shall adapt their beliefs and ideologies, not only to fit in, but to achieve a successful transformation: one should be open to change and always strive for success. By deciding to move here, they are accepting an implicit obligation to grow into this new lifestyle. After all, the American culture is the very reason that drew them to immigrate in the first place! It is said that traditions brought by immigrants to this country can only enrich American culture. However, cultures can only be preserved with the continued use of traditions, knowledge, and rituals, passed on from generation to generation. The American society should not expect to keep their culture intact and unaffected if it continues to allow new immigrants to change it. Americans need to stop foreigners from changing their culture. Incomers being accepted into American society shall assimilate the American culture and adapt to it, not just induce the customization of said culture to fit their individual likes and preferences. If the reason why outsiders come to America is to live “the American way,” then they should live like a true American. America must remain America in every single sense, to ensure its preservation and continued success!