*nod* I've heard that reasoning and it seems logical on the surface. Lets start with what we agree on. Yeah, the system does need to be streamlined if it's kept. I also agree that generalities are bad and that we're dealign with individuals (I'm glad you didn't drop into that form of argument). Developing the economy of Mexico is a great idea, but not all immigrants are from Mexico. I'm not from Mexico for example. What you said was pretty standard conservative reasoning for INS reform.
The issues arise, however, when you start to look at the idea of "securing our borders." We can't do it. It isn't just Mexico, it's everywhere. This is a big country and the borders can't be secured and the politicians know it. And we don't really do anything to deter people from entering. All the laws REALLY do is deny people access to the political system and keep them at the mercy of employers. Then you start to think of why that is. Since the dawn of time humans have been classist and the powerful have required the weak to produce the wealth for them. It is still that way. This goes beyond racism. It is classism. It is the rich and the merchant classes still needing slaves and serfs, and simply finding a different way to get them.
Let me ask you something. What makes you think that being born in america gives you an automatic right to decide who is and who isn't worthy to live here? What makes you so much better than the people you'd turn away?
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timeasmymeasure
no subject
Date: 2005-11-10 05:19 am (UTC)The issues arise, however, when you start to look at the idea of "securing our borders." We can't do it. It isn't just Mexico, it's everywhere. This is a big country and the borders can't be secured and the politicians know it. And we don't really do anything to deter people from entering. All the laws REALLY do is deny people access to the political system and keep them at the mercy of employers. Then you start to think of why that is. Since the dawn of time humans have been classist and the powerful have required the weak to produce the wealth for them. It is still that way. This goes beyond racism. It is classism. It is the rich and the merchant classes still needing slaves and serfs, and simply finding a different way to get them.
Let me ask you something. What makes you think that being born in america gives you an automatic right to decide who is and who isn't worthy to live here? What makes you so much better than the people you'd turn away?
Fuck, need to run.