The Stranger is Our Own

Book excerpt: Joseph P. Fitzpatrick, S.J. -- priest, internationally-acclaimed scholar, activist--was intensely involved in the ongoing studies of the Puerto Rican people, their culture, and their problems as migrants in the U.S. mainland.The Stranger Is Our Own contains Fitzpatrick's personal memoir, as well as a collection of articles, papers, lectures and talks that chronicle his "bittersweet journey" with Puerto Rican migrants. A consultant to religious, political, education and social leaders on the issues of migration, assimilation, inter-group relations and social justice, Father Fitzpatrick helped shape governmental and Church policies at both the local and national level. He continued his active involvement until his death in 1995 at the age of 82.