Where do you stand?

[RICHARD]

Then it is necessary to discuss health care and education.

Do WE HAVE TO?

[BOBS DAD]

I thought the point of the thread to be....immigration reform. It has become a discussion of the behavior of "those people."

Yes, you are correct. But it seems impossible to discuss Immigration Reform without broaching the obvious central theme driving this subject. Illegal Aliens from Mexico. It is a fact that this is at the core of this debate.

With that in mind, it seems appropriate to discuss the political, social and civil ramifications of endless illegal migration. I have relatives in Ca and I know many illegal immigrants and suspect quite a few more. These are in fact, "fine, hardworking terrific people". I feel for them and would do anything I could to help them get "their papers". I must admit though, I could never imagine any of these folks protesting, organizing marches or demanding anything.

I am afraid that the long parade of illegal immigrants from our southern borders has produced an environment in which "just getting here" is no longer a big accomplishment, but that getting "rights" after getting here has become the paramount issue.

It is a tough issue no doubt... but I think we need to take a tough stand and begin to take control again of our borders and not encourage future illegal immigration by rewarding illegal action.

[lbaker]

Just one thought, or should I say one opinion? Illegal aliens generally do NOT want U.S. citizenship. Americans are very vain thinking that everybody in the world wants to be a U.S. citizen. Mexicans, and other nationalities want to remain citizens of their home countries while obtaining the benefits offered by the United States such as employment, medical care, in-state tuition, government subsidized housing and free education for their offspring. Their main attraction is employment and their loyalty usually remains at home. They
want benefits earned and subsidized by middle class Americans. What illegal aliens want are benefits of American residence without paying the price. No need to jump up and down, as I said... just an opinion.