they're coming to america

"Could you imagine being a kid in this city? You'd go on so many cool field trips."

My fiance isn't wrong. I remember the thrill of field trips when I was in elementary school, but New York area kids seem even more excited. Growing up in Northern Maine was nice, but beyond state history little of significance really happened there. We did go to Boston for three days in the fifth grade, but other than that all I really remember were a visit to the state capital in fourth grade, and a trip to the town bank and post office in kindergarten. Not exactly thrilling stuff.

But New York area kids... I don't think they know how lucky they have it. They live in a city full of history and culture. The teacher's must love it almost as much as the students. It's so much easier to teach subjects like history and art appreciation when your pupils can practically reach out and touch it.

This is especially true of Ellis Island (and to a lesser extent the Statue of Liberty). While immigrants passing through the Registration Room at Ellis Island is a thing of the past, the immigrant experience in New York is very much a part of the city's present. While walking the streets I've probably heard every language on earth being spoken.* New York city classrooms are no doubt a very real representation of "the melting pot" this country is said to be.

For those kids-- the children of immigrants or immigrants themselves-- Ellis Island must be the easiest  part of American history to relate to. It wouldn't be very hard for them to imagine traveling to a new country. To not know anyone outside your family (if you are lucky enough to have family members living here already). To find yourself thrust into a world where everyone around you speaks a different language. To find yourself torn between your homeland's culture and American culture.

Growing up an immigrant in America is probably still rough, but at least the kids in New York have a very real reminder that they are not alone. They aren't the first to make the journey, and they won't be the last.


*And seen every dog breed imaginable.