E Pluribus Unum?

E Pluribus Unum was the first national motto of the United States. In Latin, it means "From Many, One." It may be found on the Great Seal of the U.S. and it originally referred to the integration of 13 separate colonies into one united nation.

It has taken on an additional meaning over the years to reflect a single society that has emerged from the contributions of immigrants from around the world. There are few national cultures that have not contributed to the American culture, and made it richer and stronger by doing so.

But, this concept is under attack today. In Great Britain it appears that virturally all of the conspirators in last week's foiled plot to murder thousands of innocent airline passengers were native British Muslims. Yet, when polled, 81 percent of those native-born Britons declare that they consider themselves to be Muslims first rather than Britons.

In the U.S., similar sentiments can be found in immigrant enclaves of Muslims, Hispanics, and many other ethnic and religious groups. Remaining isolated, they contribute little to the American culture and society. Remaining isolated, they learn little of the tolerance that is necessary in a free, democratic society. Yet, in the name of compassion and diversity, governments at all levels throughout the U.S. are going to great lengths to ensure that the people in these enclaves never have to assimilate into America, learn the country's language, or participate in it.

Our country has achieved its preeminence in the world from the contributions made to it by immigrants. Those who join our society, add to it. They don't become enemies of it.

Isn't this really the neglected issue when we debate immigration policies and priorities in the war on terror? It seems to me that they are linked. The more that those who voluntarily come to this country are required to become part of it, the more support immigrants will have and the more the swamps which serve as a breeding ground for terrorists will be drained.