This is a repost of something I did earlier that I think got lost in the SOTU fallout.
In the Chicago market the border patrol is running recruitment ads. Have you seen them?
At the end there is a group shot. Do the people look more like the `Village People" or the cast from `Reno 911"
That poll question taken care of; this diary is my quest to get information and discuss the issue of immigration since it was brought up in the SOTU and looks like it will be one of the GOP's fear mongering hot button social issue for the 06 election.
I wish to discuss the following issues? With some of my comments added.
Is immigration a national security issue?
I don't really think immigration is a security issue but it is wrapped up with the border security issue. We as Democrats (for now I include myself) need to separate these issues. Border security would be nice but not really particle or cost affective. There should be some changes though.
Is immigration an economic security issue?
Does the US economy really need immigrants or does it just need exploitable illegals? How do we stop illegal immigrants or do we ignore this issue? Would a guest worker program help or would it be just another exploited system to screw the middle class. I personally would rather have an immigrant, legal or otherwise, take my job as opposed to having the job go overseas. This is because at least the are living in the community spending money of food and rent etc. and providing sales taxes at least. Jobs going overseas only help the ownership class and will not lead to US jobs because we do not manufacture much anymore.
Is immigration a moral/cultural issue?
Should illegal immigration be ignored? Are we a better nation for it? Should we make it easier or harder to become a citizen or get residency?
Any other general issues to discuss?
Let me know you thoughts since I am really ignorant on this issue and need your help to counter the right-wingers in my area with good arguments.
Thank you
P. S. their website is nice in my opinion.
Customs and Border patrol