Letter: This country needs diversity, not divisiveness

Monday, Aug. 13, 2001 | 9:32 a.m.

The racial divide seems to be cropping up in depth these days and never in a positive light. From issues surrounding the racial education gap, groups opposing migrants and other ethnic communities, to black civil rights groups claiming "America owes us," it's a wonder why we haven't engaged in a second civil war.

Demographics show that we will continue to become more diversified. These cultural and ethnic backgrounds are supposed to make us a more well-rounded society, not pit us against each other.

This country has come a long way in trying to open up the American dream, but how can we go further when it seems this holier-than-thou attitude seems to be swallowing us whole?

We seem to forget that this country was formed by immigrants and will continue to grow that way. The purpose of America is to find a better life. That idea is meant to be realized for anyone who plans to work hard for it. Not just for those who were blessed to be born here and take the free ride.

America will continue to grow as a melting pot nation. We need to work together to make it the land of opportunity and the land of the free.

In the wise words: Can't we all just get along?

CASSANDRA PETERSON