New U.S. Immigrants

The Opinion section on immigration (“America and the New Immigrant Experience,” May 5) was timely and relevant. Unfortunately, David Rieff’s discussion on the Balkanization of America and the lack of a cultural consensus in the U.S. today gave only one side of the picture. Rather than looking for differences we must look for the values that we already share; values than can be identified through the recognition of cultural diversity.

Since 1914 the International Institute of Los Angeles has been working to help immigrants of all countries achieve social and economic self-sufficiency. We have observed that immigrants from many different countries share common values. Values of democracy, freedom of thought, freedom of choice, entrepreneurship, hard work and opportunity have attracted people to the United States over the centuries.

It is commitment to these ideals that has inspired immigrants to leave homeland, family and friends and withstand incredible hardship to arrive in the United States. Having given up so much it is understandable that they wish to preserve their culture. Multiculturalism is not incompatible with a sense of community, a community based on recognition of shared values in different cultures. We must work together to create this community.

LAVINIA LIMON

Executive Director

International Institute of Los Angeles