Recently large demonstrations have taken place across the country protesting the fact that Congress is finally addressing the issue of illegal immigration. Certain people are angry that the U.S. might protect its own borders, might make it harder to sneak into this country and once here, to stay indefinitely.
Let me see if I correctly understand the thinking behind these protests.
Let's say I break into your house. Let's say that when you discover me in your home you insist that I leave. But, I say, "I've made all the beds and washed the dishes and did the laundry and swept the floors: I've done all the things you don't like to do. I'm hard-working and honest ... except for that part where I broke into your house.
"According to the protestors, not only must you let me stay, you must add me to your family's insurance plan and provide other benefits for me and my family. My husband will do your yard work because he too is hard-working and honest ... except for that breaking in thing.
"If you try to call the police or force me out I will call my friends who will picket your house carrying signs that proclaim my right to be here. It's only fair, after all, because you have a nicer house than I do, and I'm just trying to better myself. I'm hard-working and honest .... ummmmm .... except for that breaking in thing.
"Besides. What a deal it is for me! I live in your house, contributing only a fraction of the cost of my keep, and there is nothing you can do about it without being accused of selfishness, prejudice and being anti-housebreaker!
Did I miss anything? Does this sound reasonable to you? If it does, grab a sign and go picket something. If this sounds insane to you call your senators and enlighten them because they are stumbling in the darkness right now and really need your help.
Author: Unknown..
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2 comments:
you are so right on this!!! especially coming from immigrant roots who did it the correct way, i have no sympathy for people who make the illegal shortcuts.
I realize that you did not write this so what I am saying is directed towards the content of the article you've posted.
I find the rhetoric that equates illegal immigrants to burglars or other kinds of criminals unfortunate and distasteful. There is a qualitative difference between the two. Furthermore, I find it particularly troubling that this sort of rhetoric singles out immigrants, while saying nothing of the employers and other beneficiaries of this system within the country who profit from their existence and exploitation.
I'm not saying that illegal immigration is justified - it is highly detrimental to people on both sides of the border. I agree that illegal immigration is a problem, but it is not a problem that is going to be addressed simply by better law enforcement. The practice will continue and greater enforcement will simply drive it underground, further endangering lives on both sides. We will achieve a more lasting and effective solution by tackling this issue at a legislative level in a way that will decrease the pressure to immigrate illegaly.
One question I haven't heard the answer to yet - illegal immigration has been going on for ages. Why has it suddenly emerged as an issue only now?
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