For decades, our politicians have used immigration as a campaign tool to further their chances in an election. People who come to the United States are blamed for every social problem, and scapegoated in every possible way, but the Congress NEVER takes any real action to resolve the problem. Why ? Simply because if they took the simple measures to resolve it, then the politicians might actually be held accountable to enact responsible measures that advance the overall needs of this country. Instead, they relish the attention they get by blaming people who essentially have no voice to defend themselves. It’s time we, as a nation, elect leaders who will actually place the public need first, instead of feathering their own nest.
So who are these “illegals” that cause so much grief for the United States ? The vast majority of them are hard working, family oriented, people who do jobs others will not fill. They work in the fields, or the service sector, for low wages and little economic security. They put up with the abuse of those who thrive on hate and anger, and politicians who wish to feed at the public trough of taxpayer funded largess. Many come alone, and others bring their families. Their children have studied hard, and provide higher level skills to their communities. The original illegal immigrants avoid the spotlight, simply trying to earn enough to feed themselves, and their families, and provide shelter. Our economy thrives on their backs, and we all benefit from the services they provide.
Are some problematic ? Sure. But they are a tiny fraction. In fact, every study conducted by every reliable resource shows the rate of criminal activity by this group is far less than the general population as a whole ? Should we have to put up with the criminal element ? WE DON’T. We incarcerate them and then deport them. If they come back, we do the same thing. No one suggests that the criminal element should be allowed to live here.
Some suggest that the rule of law needs to be followed, and people who are not here legally must leave. If we do that, we will devastate many industries and services that rely on their contribution. Contrary to the war cry of the hateful, these people are not “taking away jobs.” In California right now, the agricultural industry has thousands of jobs available ready for you to apply. Most of the current workers are “undocumented” because no one else will fill those positions. If you are in need of work, you can be hired today. This same story exists throughout the country. Maybe it’s because of the low wages paid, or the work is too hard for “citizens”, or there are no benefits. The fact is, if the entire undocumented population left the country right now, our stores would be bare, most of our fast food services would shut down, hotels would be unable to maintain clean rooms, businesses would need to clean their own buildings, we’d have no car washes, our landscaping would be untended, and so much more. ( Sorry for the stereotypes, but these are the most cited positions occupied by undocumented workers )
Why do these people come here ? Because we provide jobs. So lets stop with the abuse and do right by the honest, hardworking, family oriented, and faithful people who come to meet our needs. It’s time for Congress to step up, without delay, acknowledge the role these people play, and create a guest worker program that lets them contribute while living without fear. Lets provide stability for that population of people who serve us every single day for such little compensation. It’s long past time to be honest, and real, and codify a solution. A solution can be written in less than a week, and enacted in just a few short days after that. There is no excuse for partisanship or delay. There is no need for fancy legislation, or even a costly program.
If the Congress won’t do this NOW, then in a few short months, we can let them be unemployed, and perhaps they will fill these jobs. If you agree, then pass the word to your leaders in D.C. that you expect results. If you disagree, then you best provide an alternative solution that works. In doing so, please rely on actual facts, provided by documentation, not just the opinion of some ill informed pundit on your favorite TV station. And before you try to lay blame on Obama ( DACA ), please remember the Congress has had DECADES to do this right, and refused to try. Tell your representatives to do their job …
