Immigration Issues, “When is Enough, Enough?” ©

Earlier today, I was writing another treatise on immigration, specifically, I was speaking of those that arrived in America without papers. I could not restrain myself. The evening before, after reading comments on “liberal” blogs, I felt frustrated. I was astonished to realize the “Left” could be so loathsome when discussing human beings, those that fled their countries, and came to the United States, in hopes of bettering their lives. I could not stop thinking of the hypocrisy.

Who among us “American citizens” knows with certainty the details of our own family’s passage to this country? Yes, a few retain the original family records. However, they are the minority. Even those that claim to have knowledge of their past, likely recognize that there are family secrets, skeletons in their closets, and in truth, they cannot be certain of what was.

In my discouraged state, I electronically mailed a mass query. I titled it, “Please share your theories.” I sent this request to many, friends, family, and familiars, all of whom lean “Left.” I was seeking solace! Some of the recipients consider themselves Democratic Socialists, others Greens, many Democrats, a few label themselves independent. I mailed a Red or two, and one Republican, a man that thinks of himself as progressive on social issues.

I posed this pondering. “Why are so many supposed liberal, free thinking, progressive people, those that say they believe in civil or equal rights, against the current group of undocumented immigrants?” Not everyone answered; however, those that did brought me no comfort, oops, excluding one. I will share some of the responses here.

One noteworthy gentleman said this, “One reason is that if you allow unfettered entry of low-skilled labor, it lowers the wages and opportunities that exist for the already underprivileged that are U.S. citizens.” He continued, “It's a matter of competing interests - do you care more about poor blacks here who may be driven out of the market, or poor Mexicans who may not be able to enter the country and improve their lives...” A good point.

Since this stance is in opposition to an aspect of the Bush theme, “Illegal immigrants take jobs Americans will not.” Bush Reassures Mexico Leader of His Backing for Immigrants, By Ginger Thompson and David E. Sanger. New York Times, March 31, 2006, I suppose it could be considered contrary to the right-winged rhetoric. Yet, there are those of the conservative ilk that strongly make the same argument of my acquaintance. Is there merit to this argument; is my friend correct?

Let us consider . . .
• Why So Many Blacks Fear Illegal Immigrants – Part 1, By Earl Ofari Hutchinson, BlackNews.com
• Part 1: Jobs lure illegal immigrants to state, By Karin Rives. News Observer. Published February 26, 2006, Modified: March 06, 2006
• Illegal immigrants arrested in raids sue Wal-Mart, CNN.com, News Center. Sunday, November 9, 2003
• Tearing up the country: legalizing the illegals will kill jobs and fray the social fabric, by John O'Sullivan. National Review, February 9, 2004
• Illegal immigrants and the labour market, By Georges Tapinos, Professor at Institut d'études politiques, Paris. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. February 2000

Apparently, an argument can be made for any position; and there are many, not just two. On March 30, 2006, Nation Public Radio aired a program, Q&A: Illegal Immigrants and the U.S. Economy, By Adam Davidson. In my view, this presentation offered a broader perspective than most. When asked, “What is the impact of illegal immigration on wages in the United States?” The answer came back, “Well, for an individual, it depends on where you are, what kind of work you do and whether you have skills that illegal immigrants don't.”

This is true. When discussing immigration and those that journey to the States illegally, evaluations must be specific. Deliberations must include who the individual person is, and from what place to what other are they traveling. Their chosen profession is also important. Solutions will differ depending upon the specifics, or at least they need to. Blanket answers are banal and ineffective. I think it is vital that we humans realize all answers are not equal.

However, I still marvel at the idea of equality. While assessments may not be equal, I believe all men and women are. Be they American citizens or not, for me, all people are “created equal;” that is indisputable, or am I wrong to believe as I do? The premise of my existence is “working for the greater good, and the betterment of all beings.” I thought that those, who like me lean Left, consciously chose to think this important. In recent days, I wonder. What of the common good, not only the wellbeing of Americans, but for every citizen worldwide? I digress. Please allow me to continue sharing the comments of others.

Another kindred spirit, Mitchell J. Freedman, penned, “Um, because they're illegal? I don't like illegal immigration, either. It hurts native born or naturalized citizens ability to compete for better paying jobs. Meaning, illegal immigration lowers wages. That 's why I say, ‘Okay, seal the border, have tougher laws against employers in the agricultural, restaurant and construction industries.’ And provide general amnesty for all illegals who are here. It's all three as one policy, or else it's unfair.”

Mitchell wants it to be known, "After thinking it through even more, I went to a five point plan instead of three." I share his specific solution in my references below.

Tougher laws; that is an option. Let us look at this possibility.
• Laws and Funding Thwart Search for Illegal Workers, By Nicole Gaouette. Los Angeles Times. March 30, 2006

“Every year, the Social Security Administration collects information from companies that could make it easier to crack down on illegal immigration. Yet the authorities who enforce immigration law have no access to the names of the companies or the workers.”

• House Gets Tough On Immigration, CBS News. Washington, December 17, 2005

“President Bush states, ‘America is a nation built on the rule of law, and this bill will help us protect our borders and crack down on illegal entry into the United States,’”

I understand, and I too am concerned for the law. I appreciate that there are those that work to obtain legal citizenship. I worry and want the persons that were born here and those here with documents to be gainfully employed. Yet, it seems odd to me that if traveling here illegally is such a crime, why are we willing to grant amnesty to those that are did so and are now here? By doing this, are we as a nation not forgiving what is considered unforgivable? Does this action not encourage others? Might those currently living in foreign lands, those that are dissatisfied with their station, not have reason to believe that, if they are able to arrive here unharmed, stay underground, and work, until they too might be considered solid citizens, then the journey is well worth it? I think they might.

I continued reading my mails. I did not dare to speculate what would other friends or family members say.

A very close friend of mine, one I have known and loved for many decades wrote this, “I am offended that Latino Americans are waiving the Mexican flag around like they are truly citizens of Mexico, not the US. It seems as if America, as a country, owes everyone something, but no one owes their allegiance or anything else to the US.”

Wow, this writing wiped me out! I experience that this person honors cultural heritages. This individual practices her own ancient family traditions, proudly. Could these actions not be considered similar to those of the Mexicans she mentioned? Would a casual observer know the difference? I think not.

I was amazed by these commentaries, to say the least. Fortunately, for me, one voice I could relate to. Meg Cox sent this response, “Because we can't reward people for breaking the laws," [or] so they say. I think people don't know enough about the bigger picture. A bit of immigration history would do us all some good.”

After reading these, my mind was racing. I replied to each of the authors and began writing this missive. The title I originally chose was, “Aliens,” “Illegals,” Xenophobic? ©” I lashed out in words, stating . . .

We, humans label what we do not understand. We fear the unknown; strangeness or strangers cause us concern. People criticize, cajole, and coax others to believe as they do. Groupthink grows, as does xenophobia. We observe those from a foreign land and label them. Currently, the slang or slurs for persons that are residing in the United States without papers focuses on the Mexican or Latino population. The fact that “American” citizens in this recent debate do not discuss the millions of immigrants that are European fascinates me.

The public in this country calls those from south of the border “wetbacks,” “Beaners, “Border Bunnies,” “Cholos,” or “illegals.” All terms are derogatory. Yet, they seem to be the language of choice. Each of these suggests, “These are the people we love to hate.” When coming upon a Hispanic the assumption always seems to be, “they” came to the United States illegally. Therefore, they themselves, as individuals are defined as a group, one that is illegitimate.

• I need to interject. From those of Spanish, Latin American, or Mexican descent I have heard various opinions on the words “Hispanics” and “Latinos.” Some are offended by one; others think the latter is an insult. Therefore, I trust that no matter, which I use, it will be perceived as an insult. That is not my intent. Being close to many of Spanish, South American, or Mexican ancestry has not helped me to understand which is preferred uniformly. Thus, I apologize in advance for my conventions.

Asians, in America, fare slightly better. I suspect because a large number of these are highly educated, have money, and are often working in professional positions, the damning of this group is less stringent. Proposed immigration laws do not seem to be aimed at them. Nevertheless, Americans still converge on people from the Far East, India, or Asia. These persons are also named; “Chink” or “slant eye” being the most popular smears.

While living in a mostly Asian neighborhood, I was often warned to watch my pets; “they” will eat them. I was frequently asked of the smells coming from their kitchens. White neighbors commented the odors from the homes of Asians made them physically ill. [I might say the same of western fast food.] When speaking of Southeast Asian population, I heard numerous complaints, the way “those people” drive!

Rarely are these person identified as individuals, let alone defined by their countries of origin. They were not Koreans, Vietnamese, Japanese, or Chinese. Yet, it seems Americans accept these as being of a higher caliber than Latinos. Still they are not “Americans.”

My neighbors were also Persian; they too, for the most part were highly educated and professional. Discrimination against them rarely addressed whether they were in the USA legally or not.

Then there are the multitudes of European immigrants living in the United States, illegally. They pass easily. Why? They are white! Usually, it is assumed that they are in the States with this country’s blessing. Among other groups, the Polish, Czechs, Russians, and Irish mingle freely with the masses. Few suspect that millions are living in the USA illegally. These people are seen as industrious, well educated, and they have the cutest of accents.

• Protesters Rally Against Illegal Immigration Bill, By Jay Levine. CBS2chicago.com. March 11, 2006
• Irish join battle over illegal immigration, By Tyche Hendricks. San Francisco Chronicle. March 15, 2006

“Although most of this country's 11 million to 12 million illegal immigrants are from Mexico and Central America, about 50,000 Irish people are among 3 million illegal immigrants from countries outside Latin America. Other countries contributing significantly to illegal immigration are Russia, Poland, Canada, Haiti, Korea, India, China and the Philippines.”

My experience is, rarely do native-born residents of this county know the legal status of a foreign born; they assume. We, the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, convince ourselves, our friends, and our families that we are right, because, of course we are righteous, righteously correct!

Liberals spout the word “illegal” as though they have never engaged in “illegal” activities. Progressives pounce when a family works to better themselves and their station. They do this as though they are not doing the same. Democrats want to wall off the borders; they forget that they protested the same in Berlin and in Israel. Greens do not want “aliens” to take jobs from Americans, ignoring their grandparents or great grandparents, possibly did this many years ago to another group of citizens. People forget, ignore, or deny history. “Legal” citizens of America act as though they are certain of their heritage. Of course, their ancestors came to the States centuries ago with papers.

When asked of these documents, even those with socialist leanings proudly proclaim, as a very, very, very good friend of mine did, “My family can trace its heritage back to the year 1200 AD.” Countless acknowledge they know nothing of the true circumstances of their long-lost relatives. However, the vast majority is certain, passage was acquired legally. Was it?

Only today, a total stranger revealed to me a family secret, actually two, that were held tightly for decades. Only through a telephone call from a stranger, did this man, let us call him Scott, learn that he had a half sister. Apparently, his parents had been paying to support this child for decades. Scott’s father and mother had always seemed happy in their marriage; there was never a word spoken that would imply a problem. Nor was there a threat to the solidity of their bond. Scott’s Dad was a very prestigious person, and held an esteemed position professionally. However, Scott’s discovered belatedly, his father had an illicit affair twenty some years ago; a child was born. No one ever knew, not even members of Scott’s nuclear family.

The second secret oddly enough was not confidential; it was Scott’s own truth. Nevertheless, the family decided to tell no one. Scott was dumfounded; they were choosing to hush what Scott openly disclosed. Scott is gay.

With all that goes on, daily, within families, with all that goes unsaid, currently, “Americans” are certain, they know their family history. They know what their relatives did, how, and when. Citizens of this county know all their relatives arrived on these shores with documentation. Really?

President Bush might be fine with that thought. Minutes ago, I heard what was for me, the clincher, Bush bellowing a sentence that I do not dispute, “America is a land of immigrants and people ought to be treated with respect and this debate ought to be a debate that does not pit neighbor against neighbor.”

You might be interested in this transcript . . .
• President Bush, President Fox, Prime Minister Harper News Conference, E-Media Services. Washington Post. Friday, March 31, 2006

However, there are those that think Bush is just baiting the hook for business interests. Cheap labor ensures greater profits and higher stock prices. A policy that allows for guest workers benefits corporate American and this is the Bush Base.
• Immigration Reform, Online News-hour, PBS. February 4, 2004
• Guest-worker plan divides allies, By Jonathan Weisman, Washington Post, MSNBC. March 31, 2006

A few of my friends mentioned the economic facet, though none as bluntly as my cousin. A very young man who knows his history, for he has lived it for nearly nine decades said, “Immigration is matter of economics.” This statement was not a surprise coming from the source. My cousin began investing at a very young age. He knew that this practice and profession would be his passion when he was 6 years old. It has been.

Jack, as he prefers to be called, drew me out. He wanted to discuss the topic of immigration; I had every reason to suspect that we would disagree. We did not and that was fascinating. He and I both believe that this nation is founded on immigration; it has brought us the best of lives. Neither of us has a problem with neighbors of any nationality. We both experience that the diversity has enhanced our lives and enlighten us. We each think it true that those flocking to the USA are seeking a better life, just as our relatives were.

Nevertheless, none of this was, for Jack as relevant as other aspects of the issue are. My cousin was determined; he would help me to realize what he felt was most imperative. Finally, I found my way to his central case. Distribution is the dilemma. There are too many people in certain areas. In discussing this, he was not focused, only on those without papers; he was speaking of the total population in crucial areas.

Jack stated that if the government proposed to place a few of the undocumented here and others there to fill the employment and population gap, some might be pleased. However, if the lawmakers do that, then they are likely to assess and act further. After all, the goal of the government is to ensure economic growth.

The administrative branches believe it is their constitutional obligation to check and maintain balance. They pass laws to this end. So, my cousin quips, “Let us say they notice that you have a spare bedroom that you are not using . . .” Jack continues and concludes, “Betsy, when is enough, enough?” When are there enough people [on this Earth.]? For cousin Jack, possibly, his favorite form of entertainment is what we might study; laughingly, he says, “People are having sex. Sex brings more people. When is enough, enough?”

Ah Jack, this reference is for you.
• Illegal Immigrant Population Growing and Spreading, By Sylvia Maria Gross. NPR, Morning Edition. June 15, 2005

This one for my father and me . . .
• Don't overlook diversity when it's time to pick a college, BY Pete Nelson. Chicago Sun Times. April 1, 2006

Please review other resources . . .
• Beirut's Berlin Wall, By David Ignatius. Washington Post. February 23, 2005
• Poll Shows More Support for Illegal Immigrants, Survey reports 47% of Californians believe such residents have a 'favorable impact.', By Anna Gorman, Los Angeles Times. March 10, 2006

• Please peruse other blogs and commentaries on the immigration issue. You might find these interesting . . .
• DON'T START THE REVOLUTION WITHOUT ME MaxSpeak
• Viva la Immigration Debate, By Maria Luisa Tucker, AlterNet.
• Immigration 101, By Molly Ivins, AlterNet. Posted March 30, 2006
• House GOP Rejecting Any Compromise On Immigration, By Steve Soto. The Left Coaster
• Si, se puede! The Chicago Immigration March CelebrateVida
• Illegal immigration: Five in One plan MF Blog
• Paul Krugman: The Road to Dubai Economist's View
• Talking Points Memo Josh Marshall