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For over two centuries, the United States kept its borders porous—not by accident, but by design—to allow a steady flow of cheap labor. These laborers, drawn from many nationalities, helped build America with their bare hands. They toiled on our farms, raised our buildings, served in our restaurants and hospitals, and cared for our children and elderly. Many paid taxes, followed the rules, and lived quietly in the shadows, contributing without recognition.
Now, after giving us their sweat, strength, and service, we tell them: “Go back. You have no rights here.” We dismiss them as disposable, as if their sacrifices mean nothing. We used their labor but deny their humanity. We tell them, in effect, “You were useful to us, but we owe you nothing.”
This mirrors the cruelty of ancient Rome, Greece, and other so-called “civilizations” that thrived on the backs of enslaved peoples. Once no longer needed, those slaves were cast aside—beaten, raped, tortured, or killed, with no recourse and no rights.
Are we really any different now?
Today, we deport men and women to nations where they may face violence, persecution, or death. We say we are a nation of laws, yet ignore the moral law. We claim to be civilized, yet act with the coldness of empire.
If justice means anything, it must include those who gave so much to our country—quietly, invisibly, but indispensably.
