Controversy over undocumented immigrants

I know you guys have seen the tons of stories about the recent deportations and subsequent separation of families in the news.

I admit that I do NOT like to watch the news/propaganda/agenda. I truly dislike politics too. I get sad when I start paying closer attention to current news and the political climate because let’s be honest-it’s ALL depressing! I’m one of those “be positive!” people and that’s a tough feat when you see the direction our country is going…

Let’s get it out on the table right now. I’m not going to call myself a Democrat or a Republican because I don’t meet the criteria of either one party.

See why I’m not a fan of politics?

I have hope in so many causes and that one day our country will see actual improvement. I’m always – no matter what or who is in charge, a proud citizen of the United States of America!

I wholeheartedly believe in equality for everyone. I truly consider myself to have convictions in civil rights and would absolutely love to see a more peaceful world.

I’m also a realist. I know that there are true separations in our society and division among groups. I dream of change, but know that significant impact in all areas that need help is not always practical.

In some ways I’d absolutely align with a bleeding heart due to my love for others and unfailing hope! However, I’ve learned that it’s naive to not be cognizant of the challenges to unite all of our citizens. People have free will to abuse the system, commit crimes and live how they choose-even choices that bring the country’s progress down.

I know that was a bit vague as a political background but I think it’s more important to discuss our ideas instead of some unnecessary forced categories that actually only continue to divide the country rather than discussion for advancement.

From what I’ve heard (from minimal information as I admitted I’m not always the most informed) Trump’s administration has put a priority on the overwhelming number of undocumented immigrants in the country. Congress has been more active in legislation that focuses on the enforcement of deportation of an estimated 11 million people! This number doesn’t include the 4.5 million children that are naturally born citizens to a number of those who are parents.

Now, what I have learned is that obviously it was clear during the presidential campaign and the subsequent result of the election, that the number of undocumented immigrants is a major priority to many Americans. So it’s not a surprise to me that, of course there’s no “wall”. Why did anyone believe that would actually happen? However, the idea that the government is now focusing on enforcing deportation is no shocker.

The way that ICE is enforcing said laws against illegal immigration is what seems to be where the controversy lies.

Think about the people/families, that have been in the U.S. for 10, 15 or even some 20 years; that have paid taxes, used our hospitals to deliver their children, own their homes, have obtained their education and even own businesses!

I know for some this topic is very black and white but for others, this is a considerably gray area of choosing what exactly is your stance.

Fact: if one is undocumented, they are breaking the law.

No matter what accomplishments they have or how many children belong to them; technically, they are considered a criminal in the eyes of the law. I get it.

I’ve always supported a more conservative policy to secure the border. We should consistently enforce consequences, harsh or not, on those who choose to break the law and not follow the proper channels to gain documentation of residency.

This, in-turn brings up the next challenge.

Fact: The process of obtaining citizenship is well-known to be ineffective. For years, it has been extremely outdated, close to impossible for some to navigate, unnecessarily expensive and very impractical! So realistically, what do we really expect people to do?

If we had a more effective way to migrate to the country legally, we clearly wouldn’t have an overwhelming amount of undocumented residents in fear of being detained.

Obviously the citizenship process is not efficient and that needs to change if we expect to see immigration done correctly and legally.

Now that we see undeniable problems, from border security to undocumented immigrants living in the country, the current administration has sent a very clear message. ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) has been doing random searches/raids and are now going after not just illegal criminals living here but also regular people/law-abiding citizens.

I tend to struggle with concern that millions of people are living here with no intention to make any effort toward legal citizenship.

Let’s be honest, America is a “boiling pot” of diversity and culture. We’ve been taught that since the beginning of this nation, it’s our role to welcome those in need of refuge from all around the world. However, there needs to be a limit for the sake of our citizens and a working process of citizenship.

Since it’s no secret there is a major problem here, what do we do?

As I stated from the beginning, when you choose to break the law by being undocumented, you are risking your freedom as well as your family’s. However, my concern is this: why are we placing new priority on detaining those families, when we have violent criminals we should be focusing energy and resources to remove from society?

I’ve discussed some different points and now I’d love to hear what you think!

Do you think it’s a good idea to deport all of the illegal immigrants living here regardless whether they have children and it creates instability in families, local problems and economic consequences?

What are your thoughts?