The subject of immigration reform is one which is rankling the U.S. political scene, and riling certain individuals. It is time for an in-depth look at this issue.
As a blogger, I am only able to hit high points most of the time and point the way to sources for further research. I do know that the 1965 re-write of immigration law contained a provision, included close to the end of the legislative process, which allowed for an expansion in the number of family-related individuals who could come into the United States. Eventually, it seems, this led to an increase in individuals coming in from non-European countries.
It is often said that the U.S. is a nation of immigrants and this is true. Persons from all over have been welcomed to these shores. Sadly, these persons have not always been welcomed in the communities they ended up in.
America does need to remain friendly to persons from other countries. But perhaps it is time to take a look at the numbers. This I hope to do at some point. For too big an influx of people, no matter where they come from, can have an adverse effect on the existing community. There are issues of jobs, of adequate social services, good roads, to say nothing of the social impact of the newcomers.
I also know that by the second and particularly the third generation of immigrant families individuals have acculturated, adopting the language and understanding the ways of their adopted homeland. Our concern now is for that first generation.
There are other important aspects to the discussion including religion. These other aspects are beyond the scope of this post.
If we are smart we will look at the facts in this situation. We need cool heads, not inflamed passions.
