Living in a state where many illegal immigrants live, the issue of immigration is always a hot-button issue. Recently in one of my classes, the class got into a heated argument over immigration. While I believe that illegal immigration should be prevented, I do not believe that building a wall across the Mexican border will prevent it, many illegal immigrants want to become American citizens, but do have the time or money to do so. Below are a few of the more common arguments against immigration and why there are incorrect.
- Immigrants don’t contribute to the economy: False- more than 66% of illegal immigrants pay taxes, and 60% contribute to social security (which is money they are unlikely ever to see again). Alan Greenspan even went so far as to say that immigrants are the solution to the problem with social security, since an increase in the population will increase those contributing to social security.
- Immigrants refuse to assimilate to our culture: I know many immigrants, all of which are very well assimilated to the American language and culture. While some may hold on to their traditions and customs, it is usually to the same extent of a Jewish boy celebrating his bar mitzvah or a Spanish girl and he quicenera, nothing that threatens threatens the current culture of America, but in many cases serves to expand it.
- America has enough people: While in many cities overpopulation can be a problem, there is still plenty of room in America. I would also refer to the previous statement made by Alan Greenspan.
- Restricting immigration will save us from the terrorists: Hate to break it to you, but "professional terrorists" are usually well funded, and will find ways to get into the country. In some cases, the government will even (unknowingly) train terrorists, as was the case at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University.
Immigration will never stop those desperate for a better life will find a way out. I believe that in order to curb illegal immigration, two things must be done. First immigration laws need to be reformed; the process takes too long and is too expensive dissuading many from applying for citizenship. If the process is made easier, and then many more immigrants will become legal, allowing the knowledge of who is living in the country. The second part to reducing immigration is to help those countries that have many emigrating to different countries. Many immigrants emigrate to the US in order to make a living or for various social reasons. Much like the Irish potato famine or Jews escaping from Hitler’s regime, many will not leave their country unless they have a good reason to do so. If the American government is really concerned with a population explosion, then they will help to create a safer and more financially secure country, which in turn will reduce the number of immigrants tot he US.
