America has always welcomed immigrants from all over the world

Dear. President Trump,

I am a dual American-Palestinian citizen currently living in Ramallah, Palestine. I wanted to write to you today to let you know that since you took office I’ve been disappointed in some of the controversial decisions you’ve made, most notably the travel ban that prevents citizens from seven Muslim-majority countries from entering the United States.

America has always welcomed immigrants from all over the world. About two years ago, I visited the Statue of Liberty for the first time. I can recall being at Ellis Island with my family where we looked up my great-great-grandpa’s name from all those who immigrated to the United States in 1911. Mr. President, those immigrants made America great.

This is a human rights issue, and you as the president should help bring peace and equality between all people regardless of the color of their skin, race, or religion. As a Quaker school, we are taught many values. The one that affects me the most is equality. From all the news I’ve seen, you do not believe in or promote the principle of equality among citizens.

Mr. President, I know you have many goals you want to accomplish during your presidential term, but take this advice from a child: you’ll never succeed if your goals are not just and fair!

Sincerely,

Malak Qaradeh, Grade 7, Ramallah Friends School