The answer is: Of course! American history is filled with new incoming groups being treated unfairly solely for being the new group on the block. As citizens, we should learn from our mistakes and treat people fairly. I often think of a Simpsons episode in which political leaders, needing a scapegoat for the new “bear patrol’’ tax, decided to blame immigrants for the cost of taxes being so high. This of course led to an anti-immigrant atmosphere, with the community voting to deport these immigrants.

Much like in that show, immigrants are blamed for many things. However, what are the facts and what is fiction? Since becoming a sanctuary city, Somerville has seen a decline in its crime rates. When immigrants are no longer living in fear of the police, they work with them to report crimes and create better community policing. This is why many communities that embrace sanctuary status do so at the initiation of their local police chiefs, who best understand the public safety benefits that the designation can bring.

In response to the argument that the cost of having immigrants in our city is too high, it is worth noting that Somerville and Cambridge have seen flourishing local economies in recent history while being sanctuary cities. This is reinforced by many studies that show immigrants put more into a community than they take out.

In a 2013 New York Times Magazine article, “Do Illegal Immigrants Actually Hurt the US Economy?’’ the author, Adam Davidson, concludes no, they actually help it.

Because Somerville is a sanctuary city in which many immigrants make their home, we have seen a diversity in our restaurants, fairs, and cultural events. This has made Somerville the hip destination to live, work, and play. This reputation is one we should welcome and embrace, not retreat from in fear.

Somerville can be, and is, rightfully proud to acknowledge its fundamental character as a city built on the vigor and richness of its immigrant communities. Haitians, El Salvadorans, Brazilians, Italians, Irish, Nepalis, and all the others — more than 50 languages are spoken in the homes of Somerville’s immigrant youths — you are all welcome, and we look forward to both supporting your aspirations and sharing in the richness of your contributions to your new country.