Yes, America is a melting pot (one of it's better qualities actually). I disagree about not being able to pick and choose however. I think we should be able to keep undesirables out. Example... there is now a gang from somewhere in Central/South America that is spreading across the nation. They are thugs and killers. Real low lifes. They're right up there with the Crypts and the Bloods. I think it's called PS13 or something like that. I can pretty much guarantee you that NONE of them came 'through channels'. They came across illegally. And they are a detriment to our country. That is an extreme example. Most people do just want a better life. But because their countries suck we're supposed to let them just come wholesale into our country and drag us down?
Keep immigration legal and accountable. Only as many people as our country can handle per year without overstressing jobs, schools, healthcare, roadways, housing, etc. Expect them to learn, to a proficient level, the English language. Have a requirement that they get a job, vote, serve, pay taxes like the rest of us.
But this shadow world that is developing in this country is unacceptable. Large numbers of unskilled men hanging around waiting for 'day jobs'. People being able to pay them less than minimum wage because they are illegal and therefore can't go to the cops or anybody to complain about unfair treatment? I could go on. God knows there's plenty of different items that could be ticked off the list, but I think you get my drift.
Basically, if we don't get a handle on it, 'Here' is going to BE 'There'. Ya know?