Bill Sykes' Newsletter
from America.
(Mid-November 2003)
An ex-Brit gives his views-(without fear
or favor)---of the American Scene
An American viewpoint on the same subject:
The following editorial said to have been written
by an American citizen and published recently in a Tampa,
Florida newspaper, came across my desk on the very day
that reader Peter sent me his views on the British immigrant
situation. Apparently the writer was so incensed by a report
that the State of Florida had allowed a woman of Muslim
persuasion to wear a face covering when being photographed
for her driving license, that he wrote this article to
the editor.
I obviously cannot vouchsafe for the accuracy of the
unknown writer's letter but here are his/her views, quoted
verbatim, with the exception of the writers views on
religion which I have not included, as I firmly believe
that everyone has a choice to practice, (or not to practice),
the religion of their choice.
IMMIGRANTS, NOT AMERICANS, MUST ADAPT.
 I am tired of this nation worrying about whether we are offending some individual
or their culture. Since the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, we have experienced
a surge in patriotism by the majority of Americans. However, the dust from
the attacks had barely settled when the "political correct" crowd began
complaining about the possibility that our patriotism was offending others.
I am not against immigration, nor do I hold a grudge
against anyone who is seeking a better life by coming
to America. Our population is almost entirely made up
of descendants of immigrants. However, there are a few things that those who
have recently come to our country, and apparently some born here, need to understand.
The idea of America being a multicultural community has served only to dilute
our sovereignty and our national identity.
As Americans, we have our own culture, our own society, our own language and
our own life style, This culture has been developed over centuries of struggles,
trials, and victories by millions of men and women who have sought freedom.
We speak ENGLISH, not Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Russian,
or any other language. Therefore, if you wish to become part of our society,
learn the language.
 If the Stars and Stripes offend you, or you don't like
Uncle Sam, then you should seriously consider a move
to another part of this planet. We are happy with our
culture and have no desire to change, and we really don't
care how you did things where you came from. This is
OUR COUNTRY, our land, and our life style. Our First
Amendment gives every citizen the right to express his
opinion and we will allow you every opportunity to do
so. But once you are done complaining, whining, and griping
about our flag, our pledge, our motto, or our way of
life, I highly encourage you take advantage of one other
great American freedom, THE RIGHT TO LEAVE.
My Comment:
In general I agree with the author of the above
paragraph, but take exception to his or her statement,
and inference, that it is the right of anyone, (citizen
or otherwise), to express an opinion. Yes, the author is
perfectly correct, it is the right of everyone to express
an opinion in the United States "as long as the statement
or inference agrees with the popular American interpretation
of what is acceptable under the constitution", and not
what "they" may perceive
to be an un-American statement.
We welcome feedback about any of the contents
of these newsletters. Please send all correspondence to
bill_sykes@huddersfield1.co.uk
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