Yesterday I met Jeffrey Miron, a Harvard economist and author of Libertarianism: A to Z. Some people may not agree with his views on health care, but I think it is important to recognize at least one group of people who are fighting to expand legal immigration.

I mention this because I recently joined the board of a non-profit that provides job placement assistance for immigrants who have entered legally with a college degree and at least two years of experience back home. In other words, smart people who have worked hard to get here and can make an immediate impact in our society with their inspiration and perspiration. Also of importance to me is that the service helps them provide for themselves and their families — rather than giving economic assistance. They never ask for a handout; all they want is a chance.

Why would I get involved in such a cause when my family has been here for over 200 years?

There are many reasons, not the least of which being that many of my friends emigrated here (see above). America was founded by immigrants for immigrants, and keeping our borders open to legal newcomers remains critical to our future in a global economy. The US needs to remain a magnet for the world’s top minds to compete. The idea that young adults can come here on a student visa to be educated by our best universities only then to be given a mere three months to find a job before being deported is utterly ridiculous. Nevermind the fact that it has taken until now for Congress to realize it might be a good idea to give entrepreneurs a visa to start their businesses here. We have been shooting ourselves in the foot for far too long.

Hopefully one day we’ll realize our shortsightedness. Then again, maybe the only way we’ll remember is through art, which has the power to transcend language. Lady Liberty was financed by private donations on both sides of the Atlantic and has inspired generations, but is no longer the first sight of most American hopefuls. I wish we could welcome today’s talent of the world where they land on our soil, such as at JFK or SFO airport.