Immigration is a fiery topic today. Some people welcome immigrants; some resist others different from them. This week’s SPIRIT explores how accepting new people and cultures can benefit our communities and schools and expand our relationships with those around us. Prince Royce’s cover of the song “Stand By Me” is about coming together as friends, family, and neighbors, celebrating our differences, and accepting people into our homes, communities, and lives.
Lyrics: When the night, has come and the land is dark / y la luna, es la luz que brilla ante mi / Miedo no, no tendré, oh I won’t, te asustaré / Just as long as you stand, stand by me / And darling, darling stand, by me, oh stand by me / Oh stand ,junto a mi, junto a mi.
(In English):
When the night has come / And the land is dark / And the moon is the only light we’ll see / No I won’t be afraid / Oh, I won’t be afraid / Just as long as you stand, stand by me / So darling, darling / Stand by me, oh stand by me / Oh stand, stand by me / Stand by me
Questions: What challenges do you think immigrants face in new places? If you are an immigrant, what challenges have you faced? What helps ease challenges you have faced in new settings? What have you learned from people of different cultures? Who do you notice being excluded in your community?