First, I think the word "hate" is pretty strong - maybe some actually do "hate" 'immigrants.' One email I've received said something to the effect of: 'American Indians are living proof of failed immigration policies.' That issue is in itself a whole other topic for discussion. WHY close the doors now? Do YOU spend any time outside the 4 walls of where you reside??
As far as "the land of the free" - I do feel frustrated when I hear/read catch phrases (like 'land of the free') used without regard to the entire meaning; spend some time studying the U.S. Constitution and U.S. history. Unpopular concept these days but with rights come responsibilities.
Over the last 40 years I've seen a tremendous change (in Yuma) both in the attitudes of immigrants as well as the attitudes toward them. I vividly recall a period where discrimination was absent, and the primary goal of those who had immigrated was to assimilate. The past immigrants wanted to BE Americans. The current trend (and it seems to be fostered in large part by our politicians) toward hyphenated Americans seems to have eroded our sense of nationality. I also recall when immigration policy limited the number of (legal) immigrants by establishing quotas - only a certain # could immigrate from various countries each year. Health was an issue; sponsorship (to ensure new immigrants wouldn't become a drain on the country's resources) was required. How, or why, changes were made is a mystery.
I am weary of being labeled a racist or xenophobe because I advocate control of our borders and a rational, sane immigration policy. The minute a policy is discussed that an ethnic group doesn't like they scream "discrimination" and cloud the real issue(s). Ironically, the CITIZENS are bearing most of the brunt of supposed attempts to control the border. Passport regulations (I obtained mine prior to this becoming a requirement to travel) target U.S. citizens. Doesn't it make you wonder HOW these people keep getting in to this country?? Or is the passport requirement (with new microchip) just a disguised way of tracking AMERICAN CITIZENS?
I've frequently heard the argument that 'we need workers from other countries." If this were true, wouldn't OUR unemployment rate be at ZERO percent? How can you justify that workers from other countries are needed when so many of our citizens are out of work? What IS true is that by bringing in surplus of labor that supply exceeds demand, which drives the cost down. (Remember Adam Smith?) While employers may perceive cheap labor as a benefit, does it really benefit them - or their customers? The majority of the people I know are frustrated with the inability of employees to speak English, the lack of 'service' provided by many businesses. and the inefficiency and lack of education of many in the workforce. Could it be possible that IF employers PAID more it would be worth it? That there would be increased profits (despite higher pay) because they would be hiring QUALIFIED people? If an employer has employees with a work ethic, committed to (and with a grasp of "service") productivity, and logically profits, would increase, thereby offsetting the higher wage paid?
Not only do we have to worry about losing jobs to immigrants (legal and illegal) we now have to deal with outsourcing of jobs. Believe it or not, outsourcing has caused the loss of jobs in Yuma. Perhaps not enough to be noticeable to many, but it has had an impact.
Rampant immigration (legal and illegal) is having a multitude of negative impacts on our country, not limited to jobs U.S. Citizens are losing, or the reduced wages and lack of benefits. Our entire economy is affected. There is a tremendous impact on our environment, ecology, pollution, drain on services (schools, healthcare, services - everything that requires expansion to serve an ever growing segment of our population). We cannot continue to sustain this rampant growth without it eroding what we perceive, and desire, as our 'lifestyle.' Then there's the impact to the criminal justice system - the courts, jails, prisons, probation, etc. Increase in taxes, to continue to provide services. I wish I could remember the actual figures on how much money EARNED in this country is sent "home" to other countries. IT's a staggering number! It's a myth that the money earned by immigrants improves OUR economy - but it DOES improve the economy, and lifestyle, of those living in OTHER countries.
There ARE countries that have, and are serious about, their immigration policies. They also pay a living wage (think $10 an hour for restaurant servers, and customers NOT having to pay gratuities to supplement the fact that the restaurant owner isn't paying a living wage). That DO manage to keep track of those entering their countries on visas and permits - and follow through with expulsion when the visas expire. They also put teeth in it - by excluding those who don't leave on time for substantial periods of time. Additionally, CITIZENSHIP is required to be a property owner. ALL wonderful ideas and a benefit to their citizens. We could - and should -- do the same here. If we don't do something -- soon -- to reform many of these policies, our lifestyle, as we know it, will be a thing of the past.
