Problems with Immigration Essay -- Cons of Illegal Immigration, Immigr

Problems with Immigration The question is have we given up on turning our immigrants into Americans (Brimelow 30). Undoubtedly, all the hipped-up controversial rhetoric will deter the immigrant population from becoming legal. It has become such a hassle to go through the process that many people choose to cross the border without permission. Before 1960, eighty percent of the immigration to America came from Europe. Since 1960, however, eighty percent has come from places other than Europe (Wishard 153). As a result, immigrant laws have become less accepting of the immigrant community. Long ago, European immigrants were given a job, shelter, and food. Soon, the new immigrants were granted citizenship and voting privileges (Hernandez A1). Today, immigrants are lucky to cross the boarder without being shot--God forbid they become citizens. Contrary to what many believe, many immigrants are not here to become citizens. Many wish to stay for a short time and then return to their home. In fact, many immigrants are reluctant to become legal. Many harbor hopes and dreams of eventually returning to their friends and family back home. Then there are the distinct few who do not wish to decide, and would like have "dual citizenship." To be loyal to more than one country, to vote in both countries, and to travel back and forth easily (Limon). To understand the affects of immigration one must study the state where it is more rampant. California is a magnet for immigrants. As a result, many claim that immigrants are a great economic burden. California does, however, benefit from its porous borders. The succession of immigrant groups has brought the state unparalleled ethnic diversity (Gerston 9). Besides ethnic diversity, California has one of the most diverse economies in the world. Despite its problems, California prevails in agriculture, mining, manufacture, transportation, communication, electronics, construction, and defense. These industries contain a high percentage of immigrants. If California were an independent nation, with a 695.3 billion dollar economy, it would rank eighth in the world (Gerston 8). California's dense population is a direct result of immigration, which accounts for California's great political and economic strength. The unregulated movement of goods, services, and people throughout the states is what ... ... to Raise Fees for Illegal Immigrants." L.A. Times 2 Apr. 1995: A3. Christopher, Warren. "NAFTA: In the overriding interest of the United States." Dispatch 15 Nov. 1993: 785. Fragomen, Austin T. Jr. The Illegal Alien: Criminal or Economic Refugee? Staten Island: Center for Migration Studies, 1973. Gerston, Larry and Terry Christensen. California Politics and Government: A Practical Approach. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, 1993. Gore, Albert Jr. "North American Free Trade Agreement." C-SPAN. 15 Dec. 1993. Hernandez, Efrain Jr. and Simon, Richard. "Despite Gains, Latino Voters Still Lack Clout." L.A. Times 4 Dec 1994: A1. Limbaugh, Rush. "Open-Line Friday." KFI, Los Angeles. 7 Apr. 1995. Limon, Emiliano. "I want dual citizenship." KFI, Los Angeles. 28 Apr. 1995. McDonnel, Patrick J. "For Them, Prop. 187 is Just the Beginning." L.A. Times 28 Jan. 1995: A1. Olmo, Frank. "Perspective on Immigration; Open the Door to Mexicans." L.A. Times 31 Jan. 1995: B7. Wishard, Van Dusen. "The Wider Vision Seeks to Inspire the Best in People." Vital Speeches 6 (1994): 153. Woo, Elaine. "Immigrants do Well in School, Study Finds." L.A. Times 3 Apr. 1995: A1.