This blog is a departure from my usual subject of spirituality - but I felt moved by the recent events in immigration legislation - particularly in Arizona, and I wanted to record my thoughts.
NATIVE AMERICAN IMMIGRANTS?
"It is a remarkable fact that Indian people served the United States long before they were even given United States citizenship. In fact, between 1917 and 1918, over 10,000 Native American people enlisted into the armed services to serve in World War I. Although this was the greatest number of enlisted peoples from any one ethnic culture, citizenship (with the right to vote) for Native Americans was not granted until 1924."
- from "Native Americans in the Military" web article: http://www.hud.gov/offices
I think it might be a tough search to find any existing nation that did not come into existence through the persistent actions of determined "illegal" immigrants.
With the proposal before the Arizona legislation, the new immigration law being suggested will take the history of human rights back to its darker days.
There is a need to separate the word "illegal" from the word "immigrant" - someone should only be illegal if they are involved in legal deception or criminal activities. Immigrants that do not have immigration status or citizenship are merely "unregistered" immigrants.
Citizenship is a right - of birth,marriage and/or due legal process. It is not something that should be taken lightly - it is also not something that should be the vehicle for human rights violations. There is a higher law when it comes to the rights of humans, beyond any border.
FREEDOM OF AND FROM....
I believe I'm right in thinking that the U.S.A. was founded on the principle of freedom.
Freedom of religion, freedom of speech, and although not often spoken of - as a harbor of freedom FROM oppression, poverty and sickness.
Most immigrants come to America for a better life. Some are able to do it legally - some are not. Each case should be reviewed with compassion and dignity before they are deemed as "Illegal."
There are immigrants and citizens who commit criminal acts - these should be the first target of legislation and police action.
Let's give the hard-working, honest "unregistered" immigrants a chance to make their case.
Please let's not turn America (state by state) into another nation that punishes people for trying to improve their lives.
3 comments:
Crossing a border or arriving via a "coyote” is “legal deception” and by your own logic is ILLEGAL. Immigrants that are not registered and continue to remain that way are "illegal" no other way to spin it. Here in the "Heart Land" it's hard to imagine what towns such a Hope, AR have been through. I can introduce you to a few that have lived it and are die hard liberals, but they have experience what “illegals” can do to the fiscal stability of a community. We can't begin to put ourselves in the shoes of those who walk that mile everyday. A political concept is one thing, but when it affects you and your family its another reality all together. Erase the borders and live within a John Lennon song and see how long utopia lasts. There are those that have come to this country LEGALLY and no one is taking issue with that. The law in AZ does not promote racism but enforces federal laws that already exist. If an individual breaks the law or is stopped for a violation, then an I.D. is required. White people are required to provide that. Perhaps you think that is going too far, but we track individuals (white too) through this process and an officer is informed if there are any "wants or warrants" on that individual. If an I.D. is not available then that individual will have representation at the cost of the tax payers to establish who they are and their place in society. There is a process I’m sure you’re all too familiar with and for those that have gone through that time and expense to become citizens so we can regulate the resources of our nation are slapped in the face by those who just cross a fence and demand their right.
I agree with many of the points you make. I can understand the intent of the legislation - but, I'm afraid the execution of it may turn into racism and persecution.
Your views on the effect of illegal immigration on the economy is probably generally accepted. However, is it the "illegals" that have damaged the economy or the so-called "reputable" employers that hire these hourly workers for less than minimum wage, waiving benefits and taxes? You apparently can get away with not having to report employees without Social Security Cards... these employers deny jobs to citizens and encourage illegal practices.
Have the "illegals" done more harm to the economy than the greedy business leaders, stockholders, and investment bankers that have shut down major manufacturing facilities in depressed areas and moved their operations to China or overseas to avoid paying wages to citizens here?
It is always easier to blame the outsiders for our problems - Enron did more long term damage to the economy than 9/11 because people lost their dignity and their retirement savings as well as their jobs - many of those affected in that crisis are now living below the poverty line.
If the Arizona legislation is merely enforcing laws that already exist then it was nothing more than political posturing...
Arizona is taking action instead of ignoring the law. Breaking the law is breaking the law. What is it with this mentality that justifies illegal acts on Main Street because there's corruption in Corporate America? Both should be prosecuted. Eventually it's the tax payer that suffers as the result of the legal disputes and if Corporate America is hit with fines it's passed on to the consumer. States should be allowed to enforce their legislation without interference because a political party wants more votes per district.
Do you see where 16 Mexican Nationals are suing an Arizona man for forcing them off his property with a gun? He lives on the border and I’m sure most will say if he doesn’t like the traffic across his property of illegals then he should move. The logic is never side with the American because he’s had it too good. Forget the benefit of government protection. I’m sure the Mexican Nationals will win and he’ll be chastised for not offering food, lodging or the keys to his car. Wasn’t a State sued for not providing water tanks for illegals entering our country through the desert and some died? How stupid and ridiculous does this have to get?
I mentioned on another thread that those who wish to erase the borders should leave the door open to their homes with a sign that says, “Come on in and take what you want. It’s just my home but it’s your right.” Better hide those guitars.
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