Immigration

 

  • Did the 30 Days video influence your views regarding undocumented immigrants or immigration policy in any way?  

    • My feelings about immigration I think are very different than a lot of people. I do not think immigration is terrible and I do not think we should be so hostile and negative towards immigrants. The video only reminded me of the reality of what immigrants face to this day and the unfair way that they are being perceived and treated. Not only the struggles and stereotypes that many continue to face and have it shape their lives. Watching this video just made me respect immigrants who are trying to improve their lives. I think that we have been given opportunities that they do not have and I think it is important to lend a hand to those who are actually here to make a positive change.
  • Many people, including Frank in the 30 Days video, make the argument that "We are a nation of laws...and they're breaking the law" (and therefore should be sent back to Mexico).  Do you agree? --If so, why? --If not, how might you respond to this argument?  

    • Two things from our powerpoint this week I want to point out. First - Undocumented Latino workers pay local and federal taxes for which they will never claim any benefits. The second thing from the powerpoint I want to add that is a part of Mexican immigration history is - being exploited by landowners who took advantage of peoples fears of deportation. I chose these two things because many people believe that immigrants come here with a free ride through life just because they came here illegally but people do not seem to understand these two things from our powerpoint this week. 
    • I do not agree when answering this question because most of American land if not all was taken. It was taken away from indigenous people so I find it hypocritical to use this as an argument against immigrants. We have a lot of laws that are unfair. I do think that immigrants who are here to better themselves as well as their families situation should be given a fair chance. I know not everyone who comes here is always good or has the best intentions but there is no need for people to say "ALL IMMIGRANTS" are bad.  Another issue that I have is that many people assume that certain people of color are automatically illegal immigrants which is not true. It does not make sense to me when I hear people specifically point out people who have a brown or black skin tone be labeled because immigrants come from all over the world and many immigrants are also white. I also need to point out that the legalization process is not easy and can take a really long time with multiple setbacks. People are trying to come here the "right way" but this way is extremely out of peoples reach and full of setbacks like lost paperwork, long wait times, or constantly changing immigration policies that make it almost impossible for many people to succeed. This process is like holding a carrot in front of a rabbit but never giving it to them.

  • Are there other situations in which you believe it is morally or ethically acceptable to break the law? (be sure to think critically)

    • We have to challenge laws that are obviously discriminating against certain groups and benefitting just one group of people.  For example in our past we had the civil rights movement to fight against racial injustice and segregation. Another example would be abortion laws in states that have limited a persons right to make a choice about their own body. Making laws and putting them in to place is obviously okay but it should never be okay to specifically target and have them affect certain groups while others are gaining from them. Laws are also not supposed to feel as if they are limiting a persons choices regarding their health or well-being. 
    • Another thing to point out is that there may be emergencies that arise for example a natural disaster occurring and you are trying to save an individual or an animal but its in a private area with restricted access and crossing the area is considered trespassing. Although this example may seem dramatic you never know what can happen or how you will act in a situation until you are actually put into it. 

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