Musings: Storm shows us immigrants' work
Martin Ljunggren-Abbasi stands beside his parked car, on 46th Street between Ninth and Tenth avenues in Manhattan on Feb. 23. Credit: Allison Hunter
My husband and I ended up spending an extra night in Manhattan because of the historic blizzard and suspended Long Island Rail Road service. The city was magical — so beautiful and peaceful under the blanket of snow. We were so grateful to have the opportunity to see it under this unusual circumstance.
We noticed something else, too. Without exception, everyone shoveling the snow off the sidewalks and everyone serving us food was an immigrant. After returning home, we asked others about their trips into the city. We were told harrowing tales of long, cold waits for crowded trains. But every tale ended with a smile and “but I’m here now.”
Thank you, city immigrants, for your hard work, dedication and persistence. We appreciate you. You are an essential part of our country’s fabric.
Oh, if someone speaks English with an accent, that means they are fluent in at least two languages. I must admit that I speak only one.
— Madeline Grillo, Long Beach
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