From the recording THE PROMISE OF AMERICA
Lyrics
They came here speaking Polish, Italian, Greek or Dutch
Stepping out from Ellis Island, they didn't know too much
Of the customs and the language
They’d find upon these shores
But they understood the promise of America
From Germany, from Ireland, from Russia, Spain and France
They sailed here empty-handed, they came to take a chance
And the lady in the harbor
With her glowing torch held high
Lit their way toward the promise of America
They embraced the U.S. motto, “from many we are one”
Hands on hearts they swore allegiance
Their new lives had begun as Americans
They were Americans
They blended many cultures, from sea to shining sea
Learned a common language, forged a new identity
As they left behind their old ways
They strengthened this great land
And fulfilled the golden promise of America
Yes, they understood the promise of America