Ever since the beginning of our history, Jews have always been on the move. Our families traveled from one land to another, hoping for the better life that they could not find in other countries. Today, there are people trying so hard to enter the life that they need­­an assured, safe environment where one can work and feed their family happily. These people are immigrants from all over the world, but some of the most in need are those of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), also known as Dreamers. Jews and dreamers can relate, as we have gone through similar circumstances in immigration.

           In the 1800s, thousands of Jews traveled across the world to reestablish their lives in the United States. They were embarking on a long and dangerous journey that would lead them to becoming American citizens. Like many people immigrating to the United States, Jews went through historic Ellis Island where they were examined and told whether they could continue or had to turn back. It was hard not only for the immigrants themselves, but also for the United States government, because they decided who may enter and who must leave this country. If only they knew what family was waiting to follow the immigrant from other countries, often poor and in unsafe environments. People were moving for a reason­for their kids, families, and relatives not just for the sake of new scenery. They were seeking a new life that could sustain themselves and the people around them. This is why immigration is so important. Person after person, family after family, are all lined up in it. We as Jews know this especially well with our past in immigration.

           Jews and modern day immigrants do not just move for financial reasons. Immigration is a way of leaving dangers and misfortunes behind and continuing on to what a society should be. Jews for instance, immigrate to escape anti-Semitism and oppression from all over the world. There have been times when Jews were threatened and tortured to the extent that they had to escape their country. Thankfully, this has happened much less in recent decades, but there remain a handful of Jews immigrating to flee anti-Semitism and other unjust behavior.

          In our country's present case, it is often- times people trying to leave a dangerous and corrupt government. Modern day immigrants from Mexico and other countries are an example of this because many of them are immigrating to find a safer place for their families to live in. Their previous country may have not offered proper education for their children, an invaluable part of anyone's childhood. Whatever the case, these people need to escape this unsafe environment, much like the way Jews escaped persecution and antisemitism. Immigration is what links those in need to a future of possibilities and an overall good life, something that everyone deserves a chance in.

            Today, we need to unite as Jews and Dreamers and learn from one another's experiences. Our goal should be to make a positive impact for future immigrants, so that they will not have difficulty trying to make the step towards a better life. The Jewish community as a whole should support today's immigrants because they reflect our moving past. If we can help make a stride in today's immigration by sharing our stories and experiences, then others will follow our lead. Immigrants are waiting for a light that can guide them out of their country's darkness to the land that is proud of its stars and stripes, known for protecting its people. We as Jews can be this "light," and it is one of our missions to let this be known to our fellow Americans and Dreamers.