Negative Effects of Immigration on American Culture
Native tribes that populated North America prior to the coming of European explorers and settlers most likely have a unique view concerning the negative influences of immigration on cultures. Realistically, scattered bands of stone age tribesmen had little chance of maintaining their culture in an otherwise industrialized world. But as immigrants from around the world supplanted the native Americans, an American culture based on a capitalist economy and individual, religious and constitutional freedoms became established. Some Americans are concerned continued immigration poses a threat to that culture.
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Language
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Early immigrants to this country came from many countries and spoke many languages. With time, English became the language of the land and, though no laws mandate immigrants learn to speak English, most early settlers realized it was to their own benefit to learn English and ensure their children learned English. Modern immigrants aren't so quick to abandon their native tongue; rather, to demand their language be given equal status. As this trend expands, America's culture will change.
Religion
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Though the U.S. Constitution prohibits the formation of a state-run or mandated religion, the men who founded the United States were Christians, most of the early immigrants to America were Christians and many of the laws and rights established when the United States was founded were based on Christian tenets. Immigrants of other religions have been welcomed and no laws established to deny them their religious freedom. Some modern day immigrants demand laws be passed to force American culture to acquiesce to their religious beliefs, as well as some established laws be ignored because they object to them on religious grounds.
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Ethnic Separation
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Though immigrant groups have commonly settled close together in urban neighborhoods or rural areas, those groupings proved to be transient. Totally Irish, German or other ethnic enclaves dissolved as opportunities that allowed the new people to assimilate into the American cultural landscape occurred. Most American communities display a "melting-pot" culture rather than the ethnic flavor of the people who founded them. It remains to be seen if the modern immigrants, now often populating certain neighborhoods will assimilate or attempt to maintain these areas as ethnic enclaves.
Economy
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Immigrants come to America to forge a better life for themselves. The ones who immigrate legally and work for their own American dream should be welcomed. However, a large number of immigrants now enter America illegally, with a goal of pursuing illegal activities such as drugs, prostitution, kidnaping and others. Other immigrants make their way to America to take advantage of liberal social programs which give them money, food, housing and healthcare paid for by the tax dollars of working people.
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