Nations are built by migrants, so why are we turning on our own?

The narrative that nations are weakened by migrants is challenged by historical evidence, which shows that many of the world's most successful societies were built by immigrants. These individuals often arrived with little but contributed significantly to shaping their new homes through ambition, innovation, and hard work.

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Every great nation on earth was built by people who refused to let borders define their destiny.

From the Irish fleeing famine and Italian laborers in America to Caribbean nurses and Indian doctors in Britain's National Health Service, immigrants have consistently bolstered economies and enriched cultures. France's modern identity and public life are shaped by descendants of North and West African migrants, while Brazil's unique culture and economy are a blend of Portuguese, Italian, German, Japanese, Lebanese, and African influences.

Even within Africa, leaders like Zambia's Kenneth Kaunda and Frederick Chiluba, whose parents were migrants, are remembered for their contributions to their nations. These examples underscore a consistent pattern: migrants often bring fresh perspectives, skills, and a determination to succeed, seeing opportunities that others might miss.

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Migrants do not weaken nations. More often, they strengthen them.

The article uses the case of Dr. Lawrence Muganga to illustrate this point, suggesting that debates surrounding individuals should center on their records and ideas, not on their origins or attempts to politicize their identity. The core argument is that migration, far from weakening a nation, often serves as a catalyst for its strengthening and enrichment.

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The question was never whether they were French enough. It was whether they could contribute. They did.