A Rational Approach To Our Immigration Crisis

Compassion for undocumented aliens is to be understood and respected. The world needs powerful voices for those whose pleas are drowned by the cacophony of politics, bigotry and fear. However, there are occasions where the greater good trumps the noble effort.

The continued existence of civilized, democratic societies is wholly-dependent on resolute adherence to the “rule of law”. If we allow the circumstances of the moment to obscure our view of our intended societal continuum, then, in effect, we are choosing which laws to respect and which to ignore, the consequences of which are far more frightening than the threats from any physical aggressor.

There is no question our society can absorb these aliens and that our economy is desperate for their contributions. Let’s not threaten these good and decent people with punitive actions as a requirement for legal status. After all, the negligence of our elected officials in their disregard for the rule of law and their oaths of office is solely responsible for this human crisis. This is what happens when we enable others to avoid direct confrontation with their most pressing issues.

Let’s be sane and rational. Simply require all undocumented aliens to report to our immigration authorities for identification and registration within a reasonable amount time. Accept no further registrants at the end of this period. Failure to report shall constitute cause for deportation. The requirements for remaining in the United States should be:

1. Affirm no criminal record or behavior.
2. Identify any and all family members also in the United States legally and illegally.
3. Take an oath not to encourage nor facilitate illegal immigration by family and friends not presently in the U.S.
4. Promise to become U.S. citizens within five years of the date of registration.
5. Allow registrants to apply for visas for immediate family members after three years from date of registration providing the requesting individual remains in good standing with our immigration authorities.
6. Promise to carry a U.S. government issued identification card as proof of registrations and which must be presented to authorities and employers when requested until such time they become U.S. citizens.

The concept of “paying a fine” for illegally crossing our borders serves no purpose other than creating a hindrance to the registration process. And requiring the individual to learn the English language is also pointless. English is the international language of commerce and anyone who chooses to ignore this reality is choosing to resign themselves to a life with limited opportunity. As in previous waves of immigration, the first generation didn’t learn our language; the second generation learned both English and the family tongue; and the third generation learned only English. Economics will prevail over those who promote a multi-lingual society.

And quite frankly, we don’t need to build fences along our borders. Those who have yet to come will be disincentivized from entering when they learn they have to compete for jobs with the millions of lawfully registered illegal immigrants already here.

And to those who have and who continue to wait patiently in line for the privilege to immigrate to America, you have my sincerest apology. Life isn’t always fair but you have the comfort of knowing you have respected the “rule of law” and possess the conscience of an honorable individual.