The famous line, often attributed to Emma Lazarus’s poem “The New Colossus” inscribed on the Statue of Liberty, encapsulates an invitation to those marginalized and struggling to seek refuge and opportunity. The verse expresses an open-armed welcome to immigrants arriving in the United States. As an example, the phrase suggests a willingness to accept individuals regardless of their economic status or past hardships.
The impact of this sentiment lies in its powerful message of inclusion and hope. It represents a vision of a society that values compassion and offers a chance for a better life to those in need. Historically, it has served as a guiding principle in discussions about immigration policy and national identity, shaping debates about who belongs and what responsibilities a nation has to those seeking entry. The quote functions as a reminder of the ideals upon which the United States was purportedly founded: liberty, equality, and opportunity for all.
