In the debate about illegal immigration, a lot of disagreement stems from several misunderstandings on the issue. Often, people tend to discuss the issue relying on either 1) their strong sense of nationalism or 2) a sense of sympathy for illegal immigrants due to the struggles they have to face. The biggest step in approaching illegal immigration effectively is to look at the issue practically.
First, immigration is very necessary to American society. Due to the illegal entry of some immigrants, many people have developed a strong dislike for foreigners. However, these people have to understand the positives that immigrants bring to the country when they move. In short, immigrants help to stimulate the economy and they add diversity to American society. This sort of cultural exchange is healthy and helps to establish America as the world wide pinnacle of opportunity.
Secondly, we have to realize that although immigration is beneficial to society, we still need laws to regulate it. Even more importantly, we need to realize that we have to do a better job enforcing the existing laws regarding immigration. Increasing border patrols and equipping border security with the necessary tools should help with this. Also, those in public policy need to decide whether or not immigration law should be legislated strictly at a national level versus a state level, or whether or not the legislative duties should be shared.
Finally, we must shift the focus from the current illegal immigrants to the future illegal immigrants. The old saying “It’s no use crying over spilled milk” is effective in summing up this aspect of the problem. Although they entered the country here illegally, we can’t waste time and effort trying to deport them or penalize them. Offering them a path to citizenship is the best way to incorporate them into America and instill the values they were supposed to get going through the naturalization process. In addition to a path to citizenship, widespread immigration reform must be considered to encourage legal immigration and help integrate immigrants into society.
Your theory on how to end the illegal immigration issue is well thought out and if executed correctly, I think it could work. I agree most with your analogy to of not crying over spilled milk. It seems like the government is so stuck on the fact that millions of immigrants have already come into America illegally so they can’t focus on implemented a plan to stop it from happening in the future. This inhibits them from addressing the situation at hand because too much thought goes into what has ALREADY happened. I also agree that immigrants are beneficial to America but I don’t think we should condone their migration through illegal processes. The problem that needs to be addressed is the process for people living out of the country to emigrate LEGALLY. It’s basically impossible noncitizens to get a visa or get approved by the government to move to America, so we are forcing large amounts of people to do it illegally. They have no other options. America is sending mixed messages to immigrants: one side says yes we love the immigrants they are hard workers, they help our economy, and diversify our country, and the other side says NO ONE IS ALLOWED IN THAT DOESN’T HAVE A PERFECT (impossible to attain) VISA.
ReplyDeleteI agree with what you are saying and the plan you are proposing. We need to stop focusing on the past and work on the future. Nothing is going to change if we are trying to get immigrants that are already here out because more immigrants will keep coming in. It will just be like a never-ending circle. I think that the process for legally immigrating to America should be made easier so we don't have so many illegal immigrants. It shouldn't be made too easy though so everyone can get it but honestly, it is a little ridiculous. We need to focus on making the future better and let the past be the past.
ReplyDeleteLike you I believe that illegal immigrants in the United States should be granted a path to citizenship unpenalized and that immigration, overall is a great thing. I also feel that public policy is in drastic need of a change and that politicians should stop fearing the talk about immigration, as it sometimes is seen as political suicide. Although deep down I believe that America should have more relaxed immigration standards, I cannot form a solid stance on the issue, as it is incredibly multifaceted. It will be interesting to watch this debate develop and hopefully come to a satisfactory conclusion in the near future.
ReplyDelete@ Lacey LaPlant, I agree with you in saying that illegal immigration should not be condoned and I also agree that the legal way to immigrate is very strenuous and near impossible. Some of these immigrants simply don't have the time to wait because they are poor and need an opportunity immediately. A better system of legalized immigration needs to be established.
ReplyDelete@ beachgirl5892, I agree. The process shouldn't be so easy that EVERYONE can get in, but none the less it shouldn't be so difficult that no one is allowed to enter and people completely abandon the process.
@ Elaine, I hope for the same thing. The immigration debate is difficult, because you are describing mostly disadvantaged people violating a law. You don't want to shut them out, but at the same time you don't want to leave yourself vulnerable to any and everybody.