Reflections on the 20th Century
Posted Dec 29, 1999

As we come to the end of an historic era, with the end of the 20th century approaching and indeed, the end of the Millennium, we have much to be thankful for from the immigration law perspective. It is an opportunity to reflect, a little, on the humble beginnings of immigration law in the United States. With the major networks focusing on the great thinkers, philosophers and artists who have shaped this century, we take this opportunity to outline the highlights of the history of U.S. immigration law. As a History major in College, I believed that sharing and understanding the historical roots provides the foundation for our understanding the current state of affairs and will act as a guide to the future. As is oft said, "History repeats itself!"

The very first U.S. law pertaining to immigration was the Alien Act of 1798 which authorized the President to expel any alien who was considered dangerous. This Act was later repealed because of negative public reaction and replaced with the Alien Enemies Act, which allows the removal of certain aliens during times of war. The first serious attempt in the U.S. to codify immigration laws was the McCarran-Walter Act, enacted in 1952, less than 50 years ago! This Act embodies the quintessential structure and framework of the present immigration law system. Since then, we have had various laws which have been discussed in many articles and FAQs of the website of The Law Office of Sheela Murthy, P.C. Most recently, we have had the Nursing Relief for Disadvantaged Areas Act signed by President Clinton on November 12, 1999, providing 500 new H1C visas for nurses to work in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs). Another highlight of this law is that it grants permanent residency based on the national interest waiver for medical doctors who have worked for at least 5 years in HPSAs or medically underserved areas.

In the long journey of the process of evolution and of great events of this century and indeed this Millennium, we are, after all, at the beginning stages of U.S. immigration law and policies. It is up to each of us, who have been immigrants of this great nation which was built on the dreams and aspirations of immigrants like ourselves, to make an indelible footprint on the sand of life here. I do hope that each of you will rise to the challenge, to contribute to the rich cultural diversity and to the great scientific achievements, which have made the U.S. a world leader in so many facets of life.

The Law Office of Sheela Murthy, P.C. is thankful to have had the opportunity and to continue to have the distinct privilege and honor of representing scientists, scholars, professors, academicians, artists, medical doctors, and other leaders in various fields to obtain permanent residency status in the U.S. We are thankful that an overwhelming majority of our cases have been approved with resounding success. For the few that may have slipped through the cracks the first time around, we have, in almost every case, with the support of the person who wanted to pursue the matter to completion, ensured that the person obtained the approval of the permanent residency status. We believe that, "Together, as a team, we can achieve the impossible!" Without you, we could never be where we are, and for all those who have had an opportunity to work with us, we hope you believe likewise. For those with whom we have not had the privilege of working, we hope we will have that opportunity either for you, your families or your friends! It is never too late!

To all of our thousands of loyal subscribers to our Law Office of Sheela Murthy's Bulletin and to the participants of our forum for the last five years, we say, "Thank you." We also take this opportunity to wish each of you during this Special Season: "The Best of Health, Wealth and Happiness" to you and your loved ones this coming year and at the beginning of a new Millennium!