The Hot Topic of the Immigration Issue

Immigrants built America into the country it is today. Some were fleeing persecution in their own countries. The immigrants came as free individuals, indentured servants, or slaves. Most came here to pursue a better life. America welcomed those individuals, and it has a process in place for those wishing to gain legal citizenship. The immigration issue is a hot topic in the United States today and concerns individuals who are entering the country illegally. Our representatives are proposing new laws to limit access to our country through other than legal means. There are strong feelings on each side.

The opponents to “illegal” immigration believe that the cost to Americans is too high. According to this group, the “undocumented” are jeopardizing our own citizens’ jobs, and they pay no taxes. We are incurring exorbitant medical and educational costs for this group of approximately eleven million people (Pro/Con). Their concerns are legitimate, and it is unfair to burden Americans with higher taxes to share in the cost of the medical and educational expenses for individuals working here and not paying taxes. There is also a security risk to our nation. Without the background checks and information concerning who is residing in our country, there is concern that we may be more vulnerable to another terrorist attack Members of this group believe that we can deter entry by increasing patrols and surveillance and raising a wall to protect our southern border.

Immigrants who entered the country legally believe it is unfair to grant the illegal immigrants their citizenship. Those who entered legally, worked through our established process to become citizens. They came here, took the required tests, had background checks,...

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...ffective deterrent. As long as there is need and a family suffering, there will always be someone willing to take the risks associated with illegal entry. These individuals are making a positive impact on our way of life. Our government and its citizens should recognize both their contributions and sacrifices. Our current policies and laws are not working, and we should look for a means to make the process easier while addressing the associated cost and security issues.

References

Bandow, Doug. “Immigration Benefits The U.S., So Let's Legalize All Work.” Forbes.com. 16 Sept. 2013. Web. 21 Mar. 2014.

Cooper, Marc. “Exodus.” Perspectives on Argument. Seventh Edition. Pearson. 595—597

Forbes.com. Finger, Richard. “Is Rule Of Law Dead? Should We Reward Illegal Immmmigrants With Path To Citizenship.” Forbes.com. 23 July 2013. Web. 21 March 2014.