Immigration reform. It has been a hot topic for several years, but now some cohesive solutions may soon be under way.
Earlier this week, a bipartisan group of senators and President Obama supported reforms that will place the 11 million undocumented immigrants currently in the United States on a path to citizenship.
Obama said that path to citizenship includes the following: undocumented immigrants must pass background checks, learn English, pay a penalty, and get in line behind individuals who try to come to America legally. In the spirit of compromise, the plan crafted by the eight senators would include immediately granting current undocumented immigrants provisional status to live and work in the United States.
Though we are just one month into the New Year, it seems things are off to a fairly good start for America. We are moving beyond simply talking (and complaining) about issues in this country, to actually working toward and implementing tangible solutions. This year may actually be something great.
The issue of immigration has resulted in a lot of heated debates. Both opponents and supporters of immigration reform have taken bold stances on their respective positions. I’ve heard people passionately explain how “helping illegals” is just plain wrong and will cost our country millions of dollars we don’t have. In contrast, I have also heard people passionately explain why it is the United States’ responsibility to help undocumented immigrants.
I can understand and respect the position of both perspectives.
But since this country seems to be more progressive and inclusive, wouldn’t it be good to find some middle ground?
I think the president’s plan and that of the bipartisan Senate group are great examples of compromise.
Under both agendas nothing is being given away for free, while the issue of illegal immigrants is still being addressed. The plans are the best option currently and now is the best time to start actually doing, rather than simply talking.
The fact that the United States has 11 million undocumented immigrants within its borders is proof of how significant the issue is. To send 11 million people on a bus back home – as has been suggested by opponents – is not only unfeasible, it is also incredibly unrealistic.
Many of the undocumented immigrants who currently reside in the United States are already contributing to this country’s economy. Either by paying taxes or supporting local businesses, their financial contributions and work ethic help this country and I am optimistic things will be even more improved later.
It is unfair and insensitive to turn our backs on these individuals and deport them – thus separating many children from their parents. Is that the American way?
We must learn to be more tolerant and understanding of one another. We must also stop the generalizations. For instance, many people seem to think all the 11 million undocumented residents are Latino. That simply is not true. The 11 million represent all types of people including Jamaicans, Africans, Indians, etc. Immigration is not just a Latino issue – it’s an issue that includes so many others.
I salute Obama and the bipartisan group of senators who are working on moving this country forward. I hope Americans will become more compassionate about the plight of all people and then work to ensure that everyone has a chance to live in a free and just society.
You can email comments to Shannon Williams at shannonw@indyrecorder.com.
