Assimilation strengthens U.S.

Contrary to liberal conventional wisdom, the strength of American society is not in its cultural or racial diversity. Rather, the strength of this country has been its ability to assimilate most races and cultures into a uniquely American fabric. The reason why people all over the world come here is because of the tremendous opportunity to improve their lives. They know the rule of law will protect them both privately and vocationally.

The American framework that enables assimilation and success is a system of government that is bounded by the U.S. Constitution, a regulated free market-based economy, and personal recognition of what it means to be an American. Groups that think they will attain success in this framework but actively disassociate themselves from others because of ethnic, cultural or religious prescriptions weaken this country and do themselves a great disservice.

When groups immigrate en masse to another culture and refuse to be assimilated, it is possible for civil war, or worse, to rule the day. Keep your eye on Europe. Self-imposed ethnic, cultural and religious apartheid is possible in America, but it is certainly not American.

Steve Clemens

Fairfield, Wash.