In the past, when I've written 30 Poems in November to support the Center for New Americans, I've shared the story of my parents and grandparents who emigrated from The Netherlands and Italy. But 2025 is different. I have been horrified and angered at news reports of immigrants being rounded up like cattle and deported, hard-working people guilty of nothing more than wanting a better life for themselves and their families--the same dream my parents and grandparents had.
To assuage my anger, this year, at the suggestion of friends, we attended the annual Naturalization Ceremony in Northampton on the 4th of July, a joyous celebration in which 53 people offically became "New Americans." The pride and joy they and their families showed was palpable and contagious. It is in honor of them that I am writing this year to raise funds for this outstanding organization.
No gift is too small. Jim and I will match the total $$ pledged to my page.
Thank you for supporting my effort.
