Printer-friendly versionHundreds of high school and college students gathered around the state capitol in Phoenix, Arizona, on Friday. They were there to convince Gov. Jan Brewer to veto Senate Bill 1070. These young protesters were disappointed though. Brewer signed the bill and instantly set back relations between whites and Latinos in Arizona and other parts of the country.
The law is designed to identify, prosecute and deport illegal immigrants. As outlined by The New York Times:
The police would be authorized to arrest immigrants unable to show documents allowing them to be in the country and the legislation would leave drivers open to sanctions … for knowingly transporting an illegal immigrant, even a relative. It expressly forbids cities from adopting “sanctuary” policies that restrict the police and public workers from immigration enforcement….
In other words, Arizona cops now have a green light for racial profiling—unless anyone seriously thinks that an Irish national with blonde hair and blue eyes who is in Arizona illegally will receive the same scrutiny as an Arizona-born American with darker features.
It was no accident that so many high school students protested the new law. They will be directly affected. Young people are often the chief targets of racial profiling. And this law will almost surely split up families. In many cases, young people who are U.S. citizens have one or both parents who are undocumented workers. These families already cope with enormous economic pressure. The Arizona law will almost surely ratchet up their misery. But since undocumented workers are often driven here by far greater dangers and economic pressures, the law is unlikely to do anything to slow down the flow of illegal immigration.
Opponents are lining up to attack the new law on constitutional grounds. But even if the challenges succeed, the poison has already been introduced to the state’s racial climate. Gov. Brewer argued that new methods of police training would keep police officers from abusing the law. “I will not tolerate racial discrimination or racial profiling in Arizona,” she declared. If that’s the case, she shouldn’t have signed a law that guarantees it will happen.
By the way, educators who’d like to discuss racial profiling in the classroom can use this Teaching Tolerance lesson, which defines it and explains why the subject is so important.
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Comments
It is a sad day for the
It is a sad day for the nation when we once again have decided to scapegoat a group of people-most of whom came to this country facing great personal risk seeking a better life for themselves and their families-for our failings to adequately deal with the question of illegal immigration. Unfortunately it is sometimes easier, and more politically expedient, to enact bad law, than it is to do the hard work that messy democracy demands; namely sitting down, arguing the points and reaching acceptable compromise.
It really bothers me that we
It really bothers me that we have accepted and use the term "illegal aliens" instead of "undocumented workers", thanks to the spin the political right has pushed into the mainstream media. We are talking about hard working, tax paying men and women who have been marginalized through the manipulation of language.
I agree completely. Words
I agree completely. Words matter. There is a world of difference between thinking of someone as "undocumented" as opposed to "illegal". "Alien" is not a word that should be used to refer to any human being.
I wholly agree with the
I wholly agree with the detrimental effects of this bill on the families of those that will certainly be harrassed and those that will possibly see legal ramifications. Too many of you are fighting over the semantics of the words illegal alien though. These "undocumented workers" are engaging in illegal activity. Am I innocent, or would you call me an "undocumented driver", if I choose to drive without a license? No. Methods that will certainly follow the implementation of this law will be messy and will likely make life difficult for everyone involved, but the fact remains; the people targeted by this law's enforcement are breaking a law. Should we stop raiding meth-labs because the addicts have children and their lives would be difficult if their parents were arrested? No.
Thank you, AZ teacher, for
Thank you, AZ teacher, for stating the situation so clearly. Whether "alien" or "undocumented" makes no difference in this situation...if people are here illegally, they are breaking the law. This means millions of people are thumbing their noses at our local, state, and federal governments, while law-abiding, "legal" residents must bear the burden of a rapidly increasing population that threatens to bankrupt our social services. If I or you trespassed on someone's property or forged papers or falsified information to get a job or to become eligible for social services that we legally couldn't qualify for, wouldn't we be punished for that? So why are "illegals" any different?
It is peculiar to see how
It is peculiar to see how history is repeating itself. When people want scapegoats to answer for our own "bankrupt in social services" we immediately look for the undocumented immigrants living in our area. People know, or at least should know that undocumented immigrants do not get any social benefits. It seems to me, that to a certain degree we are blaming undocumented immigrants for things that we want to change. Let's not forget that Adolf Hitler also blamed Jews for the problems in Germany. When we feel insecure or vulnerable, we tend to blame others for whatever is broken in our society.
You are wrong in your
You are wrong in your statement that illegal immigrants do not receive social services, they are not *supposed* to receive social services, but often do, in fact, receive them. Think about emergency Medicaid, as well as social services for US Citizen children of undocumented immigrants. Think also about free services for undocumented workers and their children including free public education. . . . I am only saying these services exist.
Also, please stop comparing this to Hitler and the Jews. Hitler was a murderer and the AZ immigration law is not. Jews were legally present in Germany and the "undocumented workers" are not legally present here. While I do not agree with the AZ law or mass deportations the usage of these comparisons make arguments inane and irrelevant.
If I do something considered
If I do something considered illegal in the US I expect to be held accountable.
Although I feel empathy for
Although I feel empathy for the immigrant families that came to the U.S. to live a "better" life, undocumented workers do receive social services. It may be due to the children they have, but they do receive food stamps, housing, and even social security benefits when their children have been classifed as "special" due to a learning disability (many have been classified due to the standardized testing so that schools can meet their standards). In fact, some families receive a social security check for each child. Our government is supporting two wars, helps countries any time one has a crisis, and is supporting many people with social services. I think we need to look at all the facts and make some wise decisions.
Aren't social services for
Aren't social services for people in the society, people who live in your community. The people you are targeting are an part of the economy and are also part of your community so treat them like they belong.
Unfortunately this racist law
Unfortunately this racist law will also target individuals who are walking on the streets or at stores or in any other place where there is a cop. Understand the law! if the person look "undocumented" according to their stereotype, then they can get pulled over or stopped by the police. So what do you think about this scenario?
I agree with you,
I agree with you, entirely....when any one comes to this country illegally, they run the risk of being caught....the fact that they work, perhaps taking entry level jobs away fom our citizens, also has some bearing.....However, in any other endeavor, when a person makes an illegal choice, they run the risk of getting caught and paying for their decision.....either change the law or inforce it...I am tired of the sob stories about the poor illegals and breaking up their homes...they decided to take the risk....what part of illegal do people not understand...If you lived in the boarder states and had to foot the bill for their health and education, etc., if you were on the front lines of a state's colapsing economy, you might have a different opinion.....again, what part of illegal do people not understand ?
If you think about it we all
If you think about it we all come from Immigrants ancestry. People need to stop being so damn ignorant. Parents come to this country for a better life, opportunity that is not granted in their native country. Immigration laws shouldnt seperate them from their family.. They should paid the price by doing jail time but not seperating from their family. Its the worse feeling in the world..Ignorants ^ talk because they have had everything given to them bcc USA has everything and other countries dont have the same opportunity. Try leaving without your parent than you talk..god bless
Well said.
Well said.
It isn't the manipulation of
It isn't the manipulation of language that has marginalized these people my friend, but rather the manipulation of human morality that would bring us to the point where we are giving people numbers in order to determine whether or not they have rights.
I had to comment on your
I had to comment on your comment. You called illegal (by the way, it is correct because they are breaking the law) 'hardworking, taxpaying men and women' they may be hardworking but they are not paying taxes. When they are undocumented they do not contribute to the U.S. tax system. They don't pay income, state or social security because they don't have social security numbers. That is why they are called 'undocumented'.
Just for your information.
Just for your information. This illegal hardworking people do pay taxes. They dont use a social security number but they are assign another type of number that enables them to file their income tax. ; )
I stand to defer that no
I stand to defer that no taxes are payed. Every time anyone buys. a tax is charged one way or another. May I correct those comments because as the submitted have stated, it's the opposite. They pay billions into the treasury of this country and since they are undocumented they don't get any benefits from the tax dollars they have contribute into the system.So, they are supporting the tax base of this country and are getting nothing in return.
While illegal immigrants do
While illegal immigrants do pay taxes on purchases, they do not pay federal, state, or local income taxes on their wages while legal immigrants and citizens pay BOTH sales AND income taxes. Illegal immigrants from any country DO indeed receive educational and/or medical benefits among other things...roads to walk or drive on, parks to enjoy, etc. for which they have contributed very little if at all. Perhaps steps need to be implemented for those who are here illegally to work and pay income taxes, the tax which hits our paychecks the hardest. As the granddaughter of a legal immigrant who struggled to get to the US, however, I believe it should be considerably more difficult for illegal immigrants to gain citizenship or worker status than those who have waited in line and gone through the system legally. There needs to be an incentive for people to follow laws and a deterent for people to break laws. But certainly, those who break any ADDITIONAL laws (beyond arriving illegally in the country) show disrespect and disregard for our nation by doing so, and should be returned to their home country. Follow the laws set forth by our reprentatives in government... or change those laws, whether it be immigration laws, tax laws, or any other laws regarding criminal choices. We have a process in place for changing laws...which is what makes this country so great and draws so many to come here.
Undocumented individuals do
Undocumented individuals do receive many free services here in the US like education and emergency medical services. Do you know what the cost of this is to Americans?
I agree with you on this
I agree with you on this issue. I am a Mexican American born in the United States. It saddens me because I feel that so many of these undocumented individuals only come to our country seeking a better life for their families and that so many of them do jobs that our own citizens think are beneath them. But no matter what the law is there should never be any excuse for anyone to engage in racial profiling. As I said earlier I am a Mexican American with light reddish hair and hazel eyes. My mother had blond hair and green eyes and she was actually a Mexican citizen until she became an American citizen. My dad on the other hand was somewhat darker with brown hair and brown eyes. It would sadden me to think that if my dad were alive today and traveling throughout Arizona that he might be forced to prove he was a citizen while another blond irish girl would escape any scrutiny. Go figure.
First point, many Mexicans
First point, many Mexicans coming across the border are doing so illegally. That's a fact. Some are drug dealers and gang members committed to a crime lifestyle. Americans simply must protect this country from such criminals. The only way to do so is to have the Mexicans come across through legal immigration. Being poor is not an excuse for breaking the law. I don't think it's such a big deal to be asked to see your legal document to be here. Keep it on your person. When Americans drive a car, they frequently have to show proof of a drivers license and insurance. These laws are there to protect the ordinary citizen or Mexicans who are here legally. This is not racial profiling. If you have nothing to hide, it should not bother you at all. Let's stop getting all emotional about this and use common sense. I don't live in Arizona, but I agree with those Arizonians who want to live without fear. Be reasonable and see their point of view. If some families have to be split up, I'm so sorry. But there are consequences for making wrong decisions. We welcome all you wonderful Mexican people who have come here the right way. Do things the right way, folks, and there won't be a problem in the first place!
To simply tell people to come
To simply tell people to come here the right way does not take into the reality of immigration. Most of the people who come here without documentation would probably love to have the proper immigration paperwork. Who wants to live in fear everyday? Unfortunately, most of these people would not be given residency based on current policy. It is very difficult to get permanent residency in the US unless you are wealthy. Even if you are married to a US citizen, the process is very expensive and going through it is no guarantee you will be approved. Most Americans who have ancestors who immigrated here in the early 1900s need to understand that today those very same ancestors would probably no receive residence visas. So instead of criminalizing these people and now stopping people in the street, the overall immigration system needs to be reformed. What if someone has residency, but they don't have their paperwork on them at the moment they get stopped? That is scary.
the answer to that is so
the answer to that is so simple. . . carry proof of "legality" the same way all of us carry drivers' licenses. What's so difficult about that?
But if we don't have our
But if we don't have our driver's license on us, we will not be immediately thrown in jail, for one thing. How many times have you ever left and ID at home? We all make simple mistakes. Furthermore, the point is who are police going to be stopping? Brown people, regardless of whether they have paperwork or not. So basically if you are brown, you now have to deal with this added issue. Of course, people will then blame this on those who are here without papers and say if they only had them, then other people wouldn't have this nuisance. But that doesn't take into account the history of immigration policy in this country. What really needs to happen is a realistic way to provide residency for the millions here without paperwork. Drug dealers are the minority of this population. Most are hard working people who contribute to our country.
Can you tell us how much is
Can you tell us how much is "expensive"? I hear "the cost" is the excuse for not becoming a legal citizen and I would like to better understand the obtacles.
My English friend just spent
My English friend just spent 10,500 last year for his Visa that expires in July. He has worked in the U.S. on and off for the last 10 years while he was trying to become a citizen (he will not marry for citizenship). U.S. is not renewing his Visa next time because his field 'consultating/headhunting' is no longer a high need field in the U.S. Off to the U.K. for him.
Virgina said: "First point,
Virgina said: "First point, many Mexicans coming across the border are doing so illegally. That's a fact"
Really? Where did you get this "fact"? Please provide the specific reference tools that you used to come up with this ridiculous statement, or are you quoting some right wing, nut like Glenn Beck?
Furthermore, to VIRGINIA: You
Furthermore, to VIRGINIA: You state that "When Americans drive a car, they frequently have to show proof of a drivers license and insurance." This is complete nonsense. How often have you been asked to provide these documents? I have an idea, perhaps it was when a police officer stopped you for a moving violation. The cop did not pull you over or walk up to you and ask you to provide these documents without due cause. This law gives police officers carte blanche to "card" people for looking like an "illegal immigrant". That doesn't seem wrong to you??? Please describe to me what that person would look like. My dad had fair skin and blue eyes. Would he be carded? No, but let him speak and the accent is obvious. He was Cuban.
Let's read what some are saying:
Former U.S. Rep. Joe Scarborough, conservative host of “Morning Joe” on MSNBC, is against it -
“It does offend me that when one out of every three citizens in the state of Arizona are Hispanics, and you have now put a target on the back of one of three citizens who, if they’re walking their dog around a neighborhood, if they’re walking their child to school, and they’re an American citizen or a legal, legal immigrant, can now put a target on their back and make them think every time they walk out of their door, they may have to prove something. I will tell you that is unAmerican. It is unacceptable, and it’s unAmerican.”
Marco Rubio, the son of Cuban immigrants and a conservative Republican candidate for U.S. Senate in Florida, said -
“States certainly have the right to enact policies to protect their citizens, but Arizona’s policy shows the difficulty and limitations of states trying to act piecemeal to solve what is a serious federal problem. From what I have read in news reports, I do have concerns about this legislation. While I don’t believe Arizona’s policy was based on anything other than trying to get a handle on our broken borders, I think aspects of the law, especially that dealing with ‘reasonable suspicion,’ are going to put our law enforcement officers in an incredibly difficult position. It could also unreasonably single out people who are here legally, including many American citizens. Throughout American history and throughout this administration we have seen that when government is given an inch it takes a mile.”
The bill is vague and general except for one factor - it promotes an investigation and arrest of people who have done nothing wrong, but fit a racial profile.
How will this be carried out? Won't this add to the burden that the authorities have currently already? What will the police do once they've determined that someone is here illegally? They will contact the federal agencies to come and take custody at that point or to transport them to their jurisdictions. This is a non-funded mandate on the local AZ police dept. to now transport and it will take the officers away from their main responsibility, which is local law enforcement and local public safety, not federal immigration enforcement.
Read the details from a recent interviewed that was aired on NPR:
Mr. ROBERTO VILLASENOR (Police Chief, Tucson, Arizona): It's going to cause some concerns for us. As a local law enforcement chief taking on the responsibility of federal immigration enforcement is something that we really don't have the resources to accomplish. And so that's one of the concerns we have. And also, I think that there's really not enough definition of what the requirements are going to be for local law enforcement in this regard, and there are some definitions that the governor has tasked our Arizona state agency, Arizona post to define what reasonable suspicion will look like in regards to this law.
One thing I found amusing....the chief's last name is a Hispanic one....of Mexican descent, to be exact. And I should know, my mother came here legally and is now an American citizen, but she too would be carded.
I moved from RI to NC 2 years
I moved from RI to NC 2 years ago. Since moving I have been stopped 3 times and asked to show my driver's license. Each time a road block was set up and all drivers where asked to stop. Coincidently, these stops happened near farms where many migrant farm workers work.
This land WAS Mexico long
This land WAS Mexico long before it was ever bought out by the United States. I am American not by choice, but because of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. The border crossed us, not the other way around. My family was a wealthy, prosperous, ranchero family until the US bought California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas... Then my family's land was seized by the US Calvary pushing my family into immediate poverty which has taken 3 generations to overcome. I do NOT need you to welcome me... you are the trespasser. Who gave you the right to decide whether or not the rest of my family can join me? Honestly, the only "illegal immigrants" are the white folk. Native Americans and Mexicans were living here all along. African Americans were kidnapped and brought over against their will. Europeans? Hmmm... What gives you the right to be here?
Well put.
Well put.
This is the facet of history
This is the facet of history that is not shared broadly... However, the recent legislation is a manifestation of generations of 'entitlement' on the part of 'illegal immigrants' from Europe who have little to no respect for the cultures, values, and territories of people of color. Racial profiling is wrong and it is a vehicle for racism... I wonder how much time we have before Jim Crow laws are officially reinstated.
Actually, except for people
Actually, except for people who are full-blooded Native American, everyone is descended from immigrants--including Mexicans. Spain is, after all, in Europe, and what is now the American Southwest was once Spanish territory. The Mexicans who came north into California were a grand mixture of Spanish, Native American, and African--and I am descended from them.
hey, what you said is so
hey, what you said is so right. i think what they're doing in arizona is wrong and they better do something quick or people are gonna go crazy but yeah write back if you want
Point taken.
Point taken.
Do you honestly believe that
Do you honestly believe that we would be safer if every undocumented person was sent back to Mexico? Drugs, drug dealers and drug related crime are the result of this country's insatiable apetite for "drugs." Where there is a demand, there will always be a supply. Before there was an immigration issue in this country, there was plenty of crime to go around. If we deport every "illegal alien" there will still be drugs, drug dealers and crime. This country's woes did not begin with one group of people. Maybe we should look in a mirror and see who really is responsible.
Have you ever looked into how
Have you ever looked into how difficult and expensive it is to become a U.S. citizen? I urge you to do so!
I can tell that you have not
I can tell that you have not been a victim of racial profiling or you would not have posted this comment. You dont have to have dark skin and eyes---a non-anglo surname is enough "probably cause" to be harassed. Have you ever been walking down the street in your own neighborhood and had an officer pull up next to you to ask if you are a US Citizen, ask for your name and identification papers--- and since you didnt have them with you push you up against a wall, search you, handcuff you and take you off to jaill until someone could come in with your papers to prove you were not an illegal alien? Well, it is not a plesant experience and it makes you think you are living in a police state. Think about it...what if the racial profiling went the other way and YOU were the target? Not every illegal is involved in drugs and guns, by the way. Also, what about cities in Arizona who do not have the resouces to run around asking people if they are illegal or not....and are instead trying to do the job of protecting citizens from crime? Those cities in Arizona can now be sued for not "towing the hard line" on this legislation. Arizona is a very diverse state, with a large Native American population (who are dark skinned and have dark eyes by the way)...will they also end up being harassed for being illegal? That will be interesting! It's time that Phoenix stops trying to push their racial profiling preferences around in the rest of the state. We dont like it.
Virginia, Your comment is
Virginia,
Your comment is scary! you said,"I don't live in Arizona, but I agree with those Arizonians who want to live without fear." fear of who? Mexicans?! Latinos?! Since when did we become scary people?!? you said, "Be reasonable and see their point of view. If some families have to be split up, I'm so sorry. But there are consequences for making wrong decisions." When America takes over Latin American job in their and establish their capitalist cooperations in our countries and exploit our people without consent, is American doing things right?!? I suggest you research a little bit more before make such bold statements without much substance. Our countries are third world countries because America is earning huge capitalists gains! Give that some thought to that! The world is not as pure and honest as your making it sound! Americans, whatever that may mean to you... are not victims and my people are not criminals... most of the immigrants that come here contribute greatly to this nation!
Doesn't this sound a bit
Doesn't this sound a bit racist. Are all Mexicans involved with drugs and gangs? Profiling is the act of suspecting or targeting a person based on observed characteristics and that is exactly what this law sounds like. Ask ourselves how will this help/hurt us as a nation.
As we all know, racial
As we all know, racial profiling has been going on for decades. It was only a matter of time before a law was enacted to sanctify it. In previous years African Americans have been the main target of this racial bias. Now the focus is on "undocumentated workers". The queston is, is it unconstitutional to zero in on "undocumented workers"? I don't think so, because they are not American Citizens and have no Constitutional rights as such. They are aware of their circumstances when they arrive in our country, they know they are here "illegally", and can be deported to their own country at any time. And yet they come here and have children, and expect Americans to feel sorry for them and their poor decision making skills when their families are "ripped apart". My views may sound harsh to some, but we need to take care of our own citizens before we can take care of citizens from another country. Racial profiling of American citizens is constitutionaly unethical, racial profiling of "undocumented workers" is not.
The Constitution applies
The Constitution applies equally to everyone who is within the borders of this country. There is no group of people that has less protection under the Constitution than another group. That is not my opinion; it's a fact.
I see both sides of this. I
I see both sides of this. I definitely see that this is racial profiling and no one can convince me otherwise. However, our current security measures at airports also are highly designed towards racial profiling . It's made that way to protect the innocent and our country. I agree they should have to come over here in a legal manner regardless of the cost. I disagree about crime/drugs etc, I know many people from Mexico and have for over 20 years. Not one of them have ever had a problem with the law. But is racial profiling a solution? I don't think it's the best solution. The best solution is to come down Hard on the companies who employ these individuals. Only then will illegal immigration improve. After all, if they are just coming here for jobs and when they get here they can't find one, then what are they going to do? They are going to go back home and try to come back with proper documentation.
While I am in now way
While I am in now way prejudice, nor am I white, I feel this is a good bill to pass. I understand that Mexicans are leaving a life that does not support them or their families, I also understand it is a war zone in most of Mexico. However, they are leaving one war zone and moving right into another, a war that whites helped to create. The only way to really fix their problems is for them to pull all their resources from here ( ie Mexican Americans with higher educations and those with military training) back to Mexico and stand together and fight for the way of life they want. When they come out here they do not have a right to work so they do not make money, they do not pay taxes (O hey one contribution to our deficit and our social security issues) they have children which gives them to right to obtain welfare, and since they can not work our hard earned tax dollars go to support them instead of fixing our deficit. And finally, some of them not all of them (which is why the Gov. had to pass this bill) are selling drugs to make a living and to hopefully afford to get citizenship.
I'm sorry but it had to be said, I also feel, we need to fix the problems we have here before we let our bleeding hearts care for all those people in other countries. African Americans have been discriminated for a lifetime and deserve to be given a fair chance before other minorities come and make it that much harder to get the jobs they so desperately need.
(also I am not Black, I am Native American and I struggle too but I still feel strongly about equality for Americans first then we can work on the rest).
When does it become an issue
When does it become an issue of who should be here, and who shouldn't? And while I see that you are trying to step on toes gently, you are stepping on toes nonetheless. This bill being passed has nothing to do with illegal immigrants coming here and trying to live with the American system, it's most closely related to allowing racial profiling to be acceptable; which is unethical. Now how many hispanic americans will be badgered and ridiculed? How many many families will be torn apart? How many dreams will be shattered?
Those are the real questions here. Have we lost sight of the things that are really important? Like love, togetherness, diversity and morality?
Yikes! First of all, many
Yikes! First of all, many immigrants pay more taxes than big corporations in that they do not file at the end of the year and collect what would be due to them if they were legal. I would much rather deport the corrupt corporations than the hardworking immigrants.
I am so sorry that you cannot
I am so sorry that you cannot see past your own prejudice. Your comments are way off. Were you a Mexican in another life? That is the only why you would know for a fact that Mexicans are here taking jobs away from Blacks and from Native Americans. Regarding Welfare, if you go to the Welfare office, you will see people of all ethnic backgrounds standing in line to receive aid. They too have many children, they too turn to sell drugs and use drugs. I think that WE are ALL in the same boat, wouldn't it be better than instead of judging other people you educate yourself and state the truth. I sit her and wonder what makes you any better.And yes, I am proud to be a Mexican American. I am married to a wonderful Mexican from Michoacan who works very hard every day in every type of weather to do the jobs that nobody wants. If he went back to Mexico what would you eat?, what would you wear? So, please think about what you state before you press send.
Shame on you for being such
Shame on you for being such an ignorant!
I am a Native American too, and Native Americans are all native people in the American Continent. Please educate yourself before accusing innocent people of your own ignorance. Shame on you. Your prejudice goes before you. :(
Shinn
The cost of illegal
The cost of illegal immigration is borne by all of us economically and emotionally. What is the percentage of illegal immigrants inhabiting our jails? What is the economic cost of "illegal" immigrants entering our country and draining social programs intended for American citizens? How many immigrants enter our country legally each year? Please do some research. Perhaps we should be looking to the South and directing our criticism toward the failed state that does nothing to resolve the issues of the people in their own country instead of damning decisive and courageous acts to alleviate a real problem.
The set of circumstances that justify a law enforcement officer to reasonably question and determine if someone is an American citizen are usually obvious. Take coyote's as an example. These are individuals that shuttle people across the border for a fee. This is a booming business. This enterprise has increased due to absence of Federal government enforcement. Identifying individuals that are in our country illegally, in most cases are as obvious as the fallacy and slanted nature of this article. Besides, if the AZ police do not handle this situation with kid gloves, rest assured there is a long line of industrious attorneys waiting in the wings to assist. What ICE has failed to achieve, the states have the right to enforce.
It's sad how everything becomes a racial issue.
Sean, what does an illegal immigrant look like? Close your eyes and allow yourself to paint a mental picture. Take your time….
.
.
.
You have a picture. We all do. But I am sure you will placate yourself and refuse to admit it.
What is the probability that someone is in this country illegally if they have dark features, does not speak English and is either dashing across our southern border or standing on the corner of your town waiting for day labor. Yes, I said YOUR town. Right across the street. A few doors down on the corner. Would you suspect that they are here illegally? Would you take the same position as ICE so often does and look the other way while jobs, financial resources and services to Illegal’s are dispersed indiscriminately and yes, in violation of law?
But, here’s the real tragedy of this article. It is the same tragic occurrence that always accompanies a position or stance that involves an issue that directly involves a person of color: Active promotion of racial bias when none exists. I agree this is precarious. A lot can go wrong with this law and unintended consequences are possible. But the penalty of this article is far greater. Your words cultivate, promote and continue to further widen the gap between races by ignoring the primary issues. I sincerely hope in the future that the pen you wield is used to join, rather than divide.
Peace.
Your reply was very well
Your reply was very well stated. I am weary of every law becoming a racial issue. We have proof that allowing illegal immigrants into our country is harmful. We have proof that terrorists frequent our southern border. We have proof that our southern border is a resource for human traffikers. What solution would the author of this article have to protect our national security?
We have protected illegal immigrants so much that it is actually distasteful to many of our legal immigrants, people who have pursued the right channels to become inhabitants and citizens of this country.
Why would anyone protest a state's rights to protect its borders? We need to be careful. I do recall learning about a time in American history when states' rights were ignored. The outcome continues to affect this country.
I am a resident of Arizona
I am a resident of Arizona and I find it more offensive that you are preaching that AZ is legalizing racial profiling. That's not it at all. That's how everyone wants to interpret it but the reality is, a recent article I just read, there are almost 500,000 illegal immigrants in AZ alone. This new law isn't just against Mexicans but everyone is trying to twist it into such.
Are the fair skinned, blue
Are the fair skinned, blue eyed HUMANS going to be stopped? NO! Then it is racial profiling.
I know you won't believe
I know you won't believe this, but I will say it anyways. If a "fair skinned, blue eyed HUMAN" gets stopped for committing a crime...just like the dark skinned, dark haired HUMAN...and they do not have the right to be here legally they will be arrested too.
The police are not going to just walk up to people on the street and ask them if they are legal or illegal. They will go through the motions just like any other regular stop and if things turn out fine the person leaves...if things don't turn out fine then the person goes to jail...NO MATTER WHAT COLOR THEY ARE!!!
Like I said...you won't believe what I have just said, but maybe...just maybe...you will see it for yourself and realize that not all police are bad.
I think your phrase "they
I think your phrase "they will go through the motions" is key here. I think it will be rare that white criminals are asked to prove their citizenship, and I think it will become increasingly more common that law-abiding brown people will be accused of crimes on a pretext to determine what their citizenship is.
I realize that this is not an attempt to exterminate Mexicans, like the genocide directed at Jews during WW2, but it is going to have a very similar effect of requiring anyone who looks Latino to carry proof of citizenship all the time, just like Jews had to carry ID papers with them at all time in case of harassment.
Actually in AZ most of us
Actually in AZ most of us have tinted windows and it is nearly impossible to determine who is driving and their complexion prior to a stop. The law clearly requires a lawful contact and reasonable suspicion or probable cause before moving forward with questions regarding legal status. When I travel in a foriegn country I carry my passport next to my body at all times not only to comply with their laws but for my own safety and security.
Back to the stop, a driver with no ID and inconsistant stories could be cause to suspect someone may be here illegally. Forged documents (yes our officers are trained to recognize falsified documents), and often the admission of the driver or other inhabitants that they are in fact here illegally. People jumping and running from a car and the police upon a stop is reasonable suspicion that they have something to hide, be it a crime or legal status (also illegal).
Racial Profiling is illegal. Bad police who engage in it will be quickly dealt with. My sons were subject to racial profiling as teenagers and were targeted by a few bad cops. I filed complaints and got it stopped. What I don't want is my children or grandchildren profiled by the kidnappers (ever present in AZ)and face fates of violence or slavery. The gangs involved (including the Mexican Drug Cartels)and corrupt employers in AZ are imprisoning those people who are looking for a better life, mistreating and abusing them. Arizona is doing what it has to to make it difficult for these criminals to operate in Arizona.
I think you might be racially
I think you might be racially profiling those of white and blue-eyed color. There is a double standard going on in today's society when it comes to racism. I understand that the white race has contributed to the problems of race in our country. However, we are not alone in this problem. We are not all racists. So when someone who is obviously not white classfies all white people with blue-eyes as the racist group, I have to begin to question that person's own racism. It is truly a heart issue.
I believe that the AZ law can lead to racial profiling if not ammended. I also believe immigration policies must be reformed. So change is needed on both ends. And Mexico isn't the only country that immigrants come from. Understandably, immigration reform must apply to all countries.
I do believe the race card is pulled too quickly in our society. It too easy. Let's maturely speak about the issue at hand. I have many friends from different cultures who believe this way.
I work with children in AZ
I work with children in AZ and can tell you I have had several children in the past few days afraid that their family will be jailed and taken away. Do we really want to traumatize children with the threat of losing their parents? Most of these kids do not consider their home land their home. We need to get past the laws and look at the people wanting a better life for their children. The law is racial profiling and promotes the seed of distrust and prejudice toward a certain group of people. It also assumes all people coming here without papers are criminals. Most are families just wanting a better life for their children. I challenge all the people who stand against it to convince me that they would not do the same thing to create a better life for their children. We are encouraging people who have control issues already to enforce the law evenly. I had a parent arrested yesterday as he was going to work, and he wasn't even driving the car. This law is going to force people to live even further under the radar. We all live on the same planet, why can't people understand that? Poverty should not be a crime it should be something we are all willing to change.
And who put these children in
And who put these children in this predicament? Their parents who sneaked across the border illegally and had their baby here to "anchor" them in this country. (Another law that should be changed.)
First, I am against this
First, I am against this bill. I believe it will cause unnecessary hardship on American citizens. I must disagree with your stance, however. You state "It also assumes all people coming here without papers are criminals." The problem is; they are. No, they are not all drug dealers. No, they are not all gang members. Maybe they are committing this crime "for the right reasons", but the fact remains that being in this country without papers is, in itself, a crime. Hence, by definition, they are criminals.
I am not without a heart. I understand the hardship of coming to America with a dream and trying to make one's way to a better life, for one's self and one's children. The difficulty is: It is not legal in the United States. These undocumented illegal workers are subject to legal recourse up to and including deportation, they know and understand this. Will this bill make racial profiling easier to get away with as an officer in AZ? Yes. Is it already happening anyway? Yes.
I'm sorry to hear that one of "your parents" got arrested. It is a chance he took in breaking a known law. It is also a chance, if deported, he will likely take again and again.
I agree that this bill is not the right way to address this problem, but don't fool yourself. It is a problem.
I agree Patti. Once again,
I agree Patti. Once again, "those who oppose" are making SB 1070 into a racial Bill against the Mexicans/Latinos. WHILE it's opposes all who enter AZ without legal purpose.
Of course this law applies to
Of course this law applies to everyone equally, just like any law. But it will almost certainly affect some people more than others.
I agree with the passing of
I agree with the passing of this bill. For too long, illegal immigration has been under federal control, and they have done nothing to make sure that those who are immigrating here are doing so in a legal way. Now it is the states' turns to tackle this problem. I do not believe that the police will be targeting or profiling for illegals, and this article just uses peoples' fears to try to overturn a good law. You need to get your facts straight and then come back with a fair and balance review of the legislation, not be a perpetrator of fear.
Thank you.
Unfortunately, until people
Unfortunately, until people are free from racism and understand their hidden biases, racial profiling will undoubtedly come in to play with this legislation. It is an absurd idea to believe that racial profiling will not occur, as I know from personal experience, it already does; this just makes it all the more easier to take place. It's unfortunate...but true.
If the law will NOT cause
If the law will NOT cause ethnic (Hispanic is not a race) profiling, then what good will this law do? What exactly would cause suspicion that a person is not legally entitled to be in Arizona?
I don't think we can just open our borders - we need immigration to be under control. However, there is an element of ethnic resentment in the anti-immigration movement.
Wow...if these are the type
Wow...if these are the type of people reading Teaching Tolerance then we can better understand why our youth of color are facing so much racism in the classroom. Racial Profiling is against the law yet it happens daily here in AZ. Now it has been legalized---this is an affront to our civil rights and we will continue to protest as we have for a solid week now. I will not waste anymore time talking here.
Si Se Puede!
I'm not really sure where I
I'm not really sure where I stand on this issue, to be quite honest. I understand both sides, although I suppose I lean left if anything - I certainly wouldn't want to be responsible for families being separated and the proliferation of racial profiling. I'm from NJ - the racial profiling capital of the U.S., I think. We also have quite a large group of "illegal" Mexicans working in our fields (I use quotations because I was once told by a rather wise person, PEOPLE cannot be illegal, only their actions can be illegal, which I think rightly points out that we are unnecessarily cruel in implying that people somewhere are illegitimate or invalid, even if they are here illegally...but I digress.) I'm particularly bothered by Hoodwinked's response to right-leaning comments - I think these are exactly the types of people who need to read Teaching Tolerance. I think everyone should read T.T. and take from it what they can - maybe if they did, this wouldn't be such a divisive issue. I also think that kind of diversity in these comments are critical to the "messy democracy" that someone referred to earlier. Just because you're against an issue doesn't mean you shouldn't be open-minded to the opposing argument. We expect that from people who openly support the law, don't we?
Hear hear! This is a site
Hear hear!
This is a site where all opinions should be welcome. If you don't agree with them, that is fine. What is not fine is taking opinion and placing a quantitative judgment on it. What exactly did you think TOLERANCE means? Tolerance (as long as it agrees with my life philosophy) isn't tolerance at all. I don't agree with the opinions of many people posting here, and elsewhere. I would fight to the death for their right to have and express those opinions, however.
"He that would make his own liberty secure must guard even his enemy from oppression; for if he violates this duty he establishes a precedent that will reach to himself" - Thomas Paine
We should all keep in mind that it is this same rule that leaves us free to question a new bill as it is.
My two cents to top off Tara's two dollars.
Thank you. I am amazed by the
Thank you. I am amazed by the ignorance on this page...I work with many undocumented immigrants at my restaurant. None of them miss a day of work and often have two other jobs and don't use a dime of our tax money (and would get hefty returns if they could file). One they can't get resources because they are not legal. Second they fear being ripped away from their homes and families if they even step foot in a "welfare" office or a hospital. They have their own welfare system called community, something white people have forgotten. Plus, let's talk about the cost of war vs. welfare, or tax breaks for corporations. And how dare you say some people shouldn't have the right to have children? We are human, and are all children of immigrants in this country, except Native Americans, and well, in Southern Arizona and California, Mexicans, both of whom are treated like second class citizens. And if we stop having undocumented immigration, who is going to pick our pesticide soaked fruits, clean the dishes, watch your children while you enjoy your tax deductible lunch? Trying to survive should not be a CRIME. When there are no underpaid jobs, migration will stop. Period. No soy latina, pero si se puede!
~Una gringa amiga.
My son is an "Arizona-born
My son is an "Arizona-born with dark features" as you say, and I would not mind for a moment showing his legality knowing that this minor inconvenience is part of making Arizona a safer place for those that will risk their own deaths by using coyotes to cross the border. I blame the media for creating the uprise of ignorance based on sensational headings such as the one used in this article.
I think your point is that AZ
I think your point is that AZ is caught between a rock and a hard place. On the one hand, it's got real and serious problems that are a consequence of illegal immigration. ON the other, the fact that 99% of illegal residents in AZ are hispanic (not Irish white) makes AZ's compulsion to address the crime and stresses on law enforcement and social services resources, by default (can't be anything but), racist in intent.
Nothing in the law says anything explicitely about Hispanics being the target. The realities on the ground give you the chance to claim it's so, and lucky for you and your agenda.
And this is what you offer up as a "teachable moment" for impressionable students?
Get your story straight!
Get your story straight! This is irresponsible journalism! I am ASHAMED of your organization! "Teaching Tolerance" has gone WAY off base with this article. You need to rectify this immediately! Try reading the bill! It's a mere 17 pages in large print...
Gov. Brewer must live in some
Gov. Brewer must live in some dream world if she does not think that there will be racial profiling. Even when there are laws that prohibit racial profiling, it still exists.My son who is half Italian and has olive skin, dark hair and eyes was picked up by our local police who were looking for a 5'4" Hispanic male in his 40's who allegedly robbed a local store. My son was 18 at the time and is 6'1" Talk about racial profiling. It does exist and this law will sanction the practice in Arizona.
For scholars who are writing
For scholars who are writing this article...I am shocked. Do you not get that this is about what is legal and what is not? Pure and simple - AZ is sick and tired of 500 thousand plus illegal immigrants living in their state. Why is this so confusing? As far as racial profiling - this is just another whiney excuse not to take action for those who choose to play the race card. Perhaps AZ should be hailed for their ability to practice responsibility and accountability….concepts that are nearly forgotten. There is no legal profiling if you accept that we live as one race - humans...and if you understand the differences between legal and illegal - isn't that what being an American is all about?
Where did your family
Where did your family originate from? Certainly not from the US. Why don't you go back to where you came from?
If AZ is truly sick and tired
If AZ is truly sick and tired of illegal immigrants they should stop hiring them. If there weren't jobs here, they wouldn't come. But that is not what this is about, the media has created fear and catchy phrases so that Americans can feel good about their contentious behavior while others exploit a minority who are willing to work for less. Unless you are an American Indian, your ancestors migrated here. My Grandparents migrated from Italy and they were wise, they immediately Americanized all of their children - sadly abandoning customs and traditions because they new we would otherwise be targeted by this sort of racism.
This law will allow an officer to demand to "see your papers", not because you are breaking a law but because of your appearance. That does not seem fundamentally wrong to you? This is a step toward the creation of a police state and that is an unwise step.
What is a scholar? It doesn't
What is a scholar? It doesn't matter how you write it, this will always be a heated subject! laws are suppose to protect the innocent. But as you know it is undeniable that these very laws where created by the governing body. Who aloud slavery in America? why did a law need to be made to abolish slavery? this wasn't the decision of those of color, to become inslaved.If every one was given "liberty and justice for all" this would not be an issue. Those of all colors have experienced this injustice and until America admits to it's broad injustice and takes it's head out of the sand, Race will always be an issue. There isn't a day that I wake up that, somehow race will be the issue. ( Sad to say!). Iv'e also experinced racial profiling and when it happens amongst those paid to protect,it is a dangerious position to be in. With this law it will happen for sure it's just another tool in the hands of the wrong people.
Arizona law opponents not
Arizona law opponents not telling the "WHOLE" truth!! This article is not an accurate portrayal of what is going on in Arizona right now!!! Last night yet another drop house was raided and approximately 25 illegal aliens were RESCUED from 4 armed smugglers after one of the captives escaped nd contacted the POLICE!! April 20 police detained 5 people at a drop hous and recovered a grenade. April 12 approximately 40 people were rescued again from yet another drop house. We had a shootout between rival smugglers on our freeway a few years back, high speed chases and several recent traffic stops have led police to another drop house and approximately another 45 people on their way to drop houses were detained and turned over to Immigration and Naturalization and smugglers were arrested. We have a big, organized crime (including Mexican Drug Cartel activity)in Arizona that is dealing in human smuggling,kidnapping,assults,murders, endentured servitude and slavery. This law does not target Hispanics and the police will use the law responsibly to send a message that AZ is not a state that will tolorate organized crime getting a stronghold in our state.If there are "bad cops" who violate the letter or spirit of the law they will be prosecuted and lose their careers. Arizona has a steady stream of illegal immigrants from many other countries besides Mexico coming through South America and Mexico into our country. Many (not all)who can't gain entry legally are criminals. Please, stop bashing the law and realize we are a state under siege and not only are Americans in danger but the people making up the human cargo are also in grave danger. It has to stop. When we travel in a foriegn country we are required to carry our passports and gladly present them when asked. Before you judge us look at this bill. Here is the link. http://www.azleg.gov/FormatDocument.asp?inDoc=/legtext/49leg/2r/bills/sb1070s.htm
Diana, Thank you for trying
Diana,
Thank you for trying to set the record straight. I am glad to see that somebody out there is thinking with their head and not looking at this through the dark colored glasses of racism.
It is really funny that people are upset with the gov't setting a law that says that you must show documentation to prove that you have the right to live here, yet they don't get upset when the gov't requires that Native Americans PROVE that they have the right to call themselves Native Americans. They have to be registered in order to live on a reservation (by the way, the land belongs to them). They have to PROVE (through documentation) that they are Native American in order to get health care at the native health clinics. They have to carry a card with them in order to PROVE that they are allowed to live here.
I am married to a Native American and I have 3 Native American kids and 5 Native American Grandkids. All of them are required to be registered in order to get any rights that we take for granted. All of them have a NUMBER...a real, true NUMBER that is attached to them. No it is not tattooed on them, but I would almost bet that most of them feel like it should be.
Why are we getting upset with the gov't telling our police to enforce a law that not only protects us, but in a sad sort of way is already being done? I think it is very sad that we require Native Americans to have a number attached to there name that proves that they can be here.
The real sad part about this is that they are the ONLY!!! race (of those that are here legally) that is REQUIRED to have documentation to PROVE how they are.
Again, Thank you Diana for standing up and shedding some much needed light on this new law. I also believe that the police will do the right thing.
I hear your dismay, Keith,
I hear your dismay, Keith, that "Native Americans...are the ONLY!!! race (of those that are here legally) that is REQUIRED to have documentation to PROVE how they are."
So my puzzlement is this: why would we want to extend this treatment to yet another ethnic/racial group of brothers & sisters? Do two wrongs somehow make a right?
Let's all do what we can to up our efforts at "teaching tolerance" -- AND at better understanding and correcting the *reasons* why such immigration happens, i.e., the economic pressures and other dangers to which the article refers (and which, sorry to report, have more than a little to do with the globalization of capital which our country prides itself on.)
I'm correcting the link. My
I'm correcting the link. My original link was to a draft in the senate. This link is the one that was passed and signed by the governer. My mistake pointed out by a friend. There is some language change but the spirit of protecting Arizona. http://www.azleg.gov/FormatDocument.asp?inDoc=/legtext/49leg/2r/bills/sb1070h.htm
It is a shame that there are
It is a shame that there are so many people in America who judge people by there skin color. However I do not believe this law is about skin color, but about the illegal drug tade, illegal gang members, and illegal activities that will occur from some of the illegal immagrants who come to America, not to better themselves, but to profit from the misfortune of the ones who want a better life. I do not believe in seperating families but where do we draw the line. I work in a very large law enforcment agency in the south and I deal with the issue every day at work and every day at home. I applaud Arizona on there efforts, and I believe there is still some issues that need to be worked out, but it is a start. Remember 9 - 11, without strict laws on legalization and illegal immagrants we could relive this national tragedy, and maybe it wont be in New York City, at the doorstep of are Pentagon, or in a Pennsylvania field, it just might be in your town, your city, your state...
God Bless America and all the troops fighting for freedom around the world...
This is the most ignorant,
This is the most ignorant, intolerant headline I have seen. My initial reaction is to cancel my esubscription. Obviously there are some people that have such extreme views they will never consider what they see as the other sides. Both sets of my grandparents are immigrants, I see this through several different perspectives. I also have people's opinions I trust in Arizona, and the violence, and drug war realities in Mexico are such high risk to the public, and the immigrants themselves that this can't possibly be painted with the brush that this is just racial profiling. That is grossly irresponsible. If you can't see some middle ground and merit to what you view as the other sides opinion then you are too extreme. We better start getting the whole story, and stop sensationalizing every conflict if things are really going to improve in this country. Where is you outrage at the ranchers, public, and illegal immigrants themselves that have been killed and hurt in the criminal activity that goes along with this ? This post gave a realistic example. Arizona law opponents not telling the "WHOLE" truth!! This article is not an accurate portrayal of what is going on in Arizona right now!!! Last night yet another drop house was raided and approximately 25 illegal aliens were RESCUED from 4 armed smugglers after one of the captives escaped nd contacted the POLICE!! April 20 police detained 5 people at a drop hous and recovered a grenade. April 12 approximately 40 people were rescued again from yet another drop house. We had a shootout between rival smugglers on our freeway a few years back, high speed chases and several recent traffic stops have led police to another drop house and approximately another 45 people on their way to drop houses were detained and turned over to Immigration and Naturalization and smugglers were arrested. We have a big, organized crime (including Mexican Drug Cartel activity)in Arizona that is dealing in human smuggling,kidnapping,assults,murders, endentured servitude and slavery. This law does not target Hispanics and the police will use the law responsibly to send a message that AZ is not a state that will tolerate organized crime getting a stronghold in our state.If there are "bad cops" who violate the letter or spirit of the law they will be prosecuted and lose their careers. Arizona has a steady stream of illegal immigrants from many other countries besides Mexico coming through South America and Mexico into our country. Many (not all)who can't gain entry legally are criminals. Please, stop bashing the law and realize we are a state under siege and not only are Americans in danger but the people making up the human cargo are also in grave danger. It has to stop. When we travel in a foriegn country we are required to carry our passports and gladly present them when asked. Before you judge us look at this bill. Here is the link. http://www.azleg.gov/FormatDocument.asp?inDoc=/legtext/49leg/2r/bills/sb1070s.htm reply
Arizona's law is NOT a
Arizona's law is NOT a racial-profiling law. Your article clearly stated, "The law is designed to identify, prosecute and deport illegal immigrants." The only error in that sentence is the word "immigrants." You should have said "illegal aliens." The only people who need to fear the new law are those in this country illegally.
"Arizona Legalizes Racial
"Arizona Legalizes Racial Profiling"
As an English teacher in Arizona, I want to thank you for this article. I will use it when I teach one-sided-biased-propaganda.
Arizona did not legalize racial profiling; they enabled the police in Arizona to arrest illegal immigrants. It's not like America will ever treat illegal immigrants horribly (like Mexico does), but there has to be something done. If you are born in America or have become a legal citizen, than you are an American and have rights under the U.S. constitution. If you were not born in America or become an American citizen, than you have no rights under the U.S. constitution. Is that really hard to understand?
Also, there is no such thing as a Mexican-American. You are either Mexican or you are American. I have Scottish, and English ancestry, does that make me a Scottish-English-American?
As has been stated by others,
As has been stated by others, you don't have to be a citizen to have rights under the US constitution. So, it is you that don't understand; our constitution protects everyone, due process is due to everyone, citizen or not.
I am a student, and though I
I am a student, and though I don't live in Arizona, I still feel I have the right to tell you my opinion. You bring up an interesting piont when you bring up that "If you were not born in America or have ecome an American citizen, than you have no rights under the U.S. Constitution."(by the way you have a few gramatical errors such as than which should be then)Doyou beleive that the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness is only for us select few that were born in the United States? I'm sorry but if you beleive that then you are deeming people of other countries less important then us, and that is wrong. I'm also surprised that you beleive police are only going to arrest illegal imagrants, there will always be a few people that will use laws for their own means.
P.S. I suppose you could call me a English-Ukranian-Irish-Scottish American
Of course, when we speak of
Of course, when we speak of "illegals" we are supposed to think of Mexicans. How many illegal aliens come from Canada, Europe, and Asia? How many students from foreign countries other than near south and way south of the border come to the USA on student visas and then stay after they run out because they do not "look like" aliens. What about those people whose families were here before Columbus with the only thing changing being the governments who claim the area they have historically lived in?
If the phrase "illegal Alien" automatically conjures up an image of a Mexican then the politicians who do not address issues, but create them, have won, and will capitalize on this for votes.
Compare the full length of the Mexican Border with flat, sparsely tree covered space to that of Canada with lakes and trees. Which is easier to get across undetected?
I can only agree with this
I can only agree with this policy, if the same sentiment was exercised when speaking about the illegal immigrants of Canada. The immigrants of Canada are never brought into question when considering the "immigration problem", why is that? Scapegoating is only one word, but not the first word that comes to mind. It is definitely a sad day. For all the above reasons and more.
Sorry to tangent or take away from the issue but failure to mention the Canadian immigration, every time immigration is talked about tells me there is no immigration concern. The only concern is a people of color immigration concern.
Well, do we have millions
Well, do we have millions upon millions of undocumented Canadians here? We are responding to what we hear on TV, see in the newspapers and magazines, and read on the internet, and that information tells us that it's the "illegals" from MEXICO that are creating the huge burden here.
Many years ago "profiling"
Many years ago "profiling" was part of good Police work. When police got a report and/or have PC (probable cause) that someone of a certain color just committed a crime in a specific neighborhood & that alleged person was lets say a white male, well why would the the officers scour the neighborhood for someone other than a white male? Keep in mind that our AZ law enforcement officers need probable cause & therefore be justified in making lets say a traffic stop, etc AND that officer then will ask for appropriate ID (AZ picture ID, AZ drivers license, car registration and car insurance) ALL which MANY indocumented entrants (muslim, mexican, etc) may or may not have on their person. JUST as those abiding citizens of White or African American decent have to adhere to AZ laws...so should any Mexican who is here unauthorized in our state NOT have to produce legal ID ? SB1070 should be approved in all states in the Union ~ Just as any American has to produce legal paperwork to travel abroad, legally...This SB will make those who come to AZ unauthorized to now give it a 2nd thought...Every 1 of 3 of Mexican decent are in our prison system...AZ...The Buck stops here. Someone needed to step in and take a stance. Let's hear it for the other states to follow suit. Go SB 1070 ~
Racial profiling? Sorry, but
Racial profiling? Sorry, but these Illegal aliens (not "undocumented workers") are breaking the law. If they want immigrate to this country then they need to follow the laws of this country and learn the language. The border situation is out of control and something must be done and this is a monumental first step and I salute the governor and their legislative body for standing up to defend their state where the "federal government" (whose job it is) has failed to act. Not only are illegals coming across but it is wide open for terrorist. If you want to come to this country don't do it by breaking our laws first thing. And to give amnesty to all the illegals is a slap in the face to the ones who have followed the laws. If "racial profiling" is what it takes to secure our borders then so be it. The illegals are creating the problem and they must be stopped. Also, the ones who blatantly know and harbor others who are here illegally should be charged. Employers should be charged as it is already a law to hire illegals. This is a nation of laws. Abide by them or leave.
I read the comment about "the
I read the comment about "the illegals are doing the jobs that are beneath people in this country". Guess what? Alot of these jobs have been "devalued" by undocumented workers that don't pay taxes,don't get covered by workmen's compensation and are willing to work for less. That's why these jobs are beneath the average "legal" American.
My Great Grand parents came to this country from Italy through Ellis Island. They did the right thing. Learned English,registered their cars, worked their way in and up.
Is this too difficult for Mexicans?
I am disturbed that so many
I am disturbed that so many of our comments are accusatory and some of those are apallingly racist. We stand on the shoulders of so many great thinkers and peaceful ancestors that we should walk taller, above the dirt of hate and the "us v. them" mentality. Listen to the people of Arizona and sympathize with their plite. Walk in their shoes. Listen to the immigrants both legal and illegal, sympathize with them as well. Then speak and act with reason. The open hand v. the clenched fist. I live in California and am not completely aware of what is going on in Arizona, so in no way do I feel justified in judging anyone. I know law is an attempt to bring justice. From the little I read, on it's face this law doesn't seem to seek justice, but screaming louder does not seek justice either.
I am also appalled at the
I am also appalled at the blatant racism that is coming out in this country. I live in Texas and have a son in Arizona. It is naive to think that white people are going to be stopped because there is a "suspicion" that they are illegal immigrants. Many of our ancestors were also harrassed when they came here (Irish, Italians, all Asians, and Jewish people from all over Europe) but when they came here there were no "quotas" keeping them out so they were not illegal. If you could hear the talk by many Texans who believe that all the "Mexicans" and other "illegals" need to go home when they are doing jobs here that none of the "Americans" (translate - white people) would dream of taking, you might realize how much racism is at the heart of much of this. If the police stop people from China, India, Canada, or any part of the world other than Latin America for suspician of being here illegally I will believe the law is about enforcing immigration laws. Until then, I believe it has its roots in racism, and it's a sad chapter in our history.
This article and situation
This article and situation come at an academically ideal time for me, as I just discussed the topic of institutional racism with my students. I teach many California-born, Mexican-American students in Southern California and it was absolutely disheartening to hear them contribute to class discussion with their stories of racial disparity. The majority of my class knows someone who has been discriminated against due to race (from institutions ranging from the legal system, to the workplace, to even the public education system). It's definitely an important topic to discuss, as they are able to develop a support network for each other and realize that by raising awareness, we can begin to make the slow wheels of progress turn.
Furthermore (although a Caucasian myself), I was very offended by the comment that stated: "Some [Mexicans] are drug dealers and gang members committed to a crime lifestyle. Americans simply must protect this country from such criminals." First of all, the language in this comment criminalizes a minority population that is already heavily discriminated against due to stereotypes (and this ADDS very much to such negative stereotypes). Secondly, I would like this commenter to cite evidence for exactly what part of the Mexican immigrant population is coming to America, "dedicated to a life a crime". If parts of Mexico are already infiltrated with criminal activity and injust institutions, why would criminals be so desperate to come here? After hearing my students' perspective, it seems as if a large majority of undocumented immigrants truly do come here for a better life for their family, free of fear of unjust political forces-- which is exactly what we are beginning to permit here.
As a Latino living in the
As a Latino living in the most seeked country on Earth, I can say that our taxes are plundered by Illegals that rather pay a Coyote than applying legally for much less money. I live in Arizona and for those of you ignorant to our situation Phoenix has become the second location for most kidnappings and murders in the Nation due to Mexican gangs and illegal individuals able to come into our territory because our Federal Government benefits from illegals. The Dems looking for votes and the Reps looking for cheap labor overlook our financial burden and security. With that said, having papers to rectify your stay in the US is a Federal Law. As far as the leaglity of looking into it is the fault of our Law enforcement entities who have no desire to put up with legalities...Our constitution like Mexicos require a Visa like after Mexico's buffer zone at the 20 Kilometer mark into Mexico. If you have no insurance for your car and a Visa you will be put into jail. So,what is the downfall. Maybe security, our legality as far as our Contitutional Law and jobs for legal residents. Not a bad deal afterall. FDR did it and many others when Economy sucks like many of you looking after "illegals", meanwhile our schools are closed and our state is broke. wake up, stop being stupid and put up with reality...
Wake up!!! It is your
Wake up!!! It is your responsibility as a teacher to recognize and report to your students that there are criminals, drug dealers, kidnappers, smugglers,(We have a rainbow of these crooks, however, the Mexican drug cartel is active in AZ right now) etc that have caused this problem. It is also your responsibility to educate and reinforce to these children that these are not stereotypes but very real and dangerous INDIVIDUALS. But the good news is you have the power to instill in these children that through hard work, education and perserverance they can achieve much more and never have to resort to criminal activity to live or be successful. These children can be the leaders and policy makers of tomorrow and it is wrong for you to lead children to believe that they are inferior by your action or inaction.
I too am an educator with a diverse staff and a very diverse segment of the population in my school. My staff are charged with providing maximum exposure to careers, successful people, engage in college and future plans conversations. All of my children feel special and have little concern about color or race. Each child is made to feel special and emphasis is placed on each child being special and identifying and capitalizing on their talents.
We include cultural customs into our routine and our children learn some basic Spanish.
Empower your children with confidence and don't cripple them with tools of blame.
I can only agree with this
I can only agree with this policy, if the same sentiment was exercised when speaking about the illegal immigrants of Canada. The immigrants of Canada are never brought into question when considering the "immigration problem", why is that? Scapegoating is only one word, but not the first word that comes to mind. It is definitely a sad day. For all the above reasons and more.
Sorry to tangent or take away from the issue but failure to mention the Canadian immigration, every time immigration is talked about tells me there is no immigration concern. The only concern is a people of color immigration concern.
I can tell you that upon
I can tell you that upon moving to AZ in the mid-90's, my pale skinned, red-headed son was not allowed to enroll in school until I was able to get his birth certificate off the moving truck, because I had to prove he was a legal citizen. AZ showed NO PREFERENCE against ANY race by making us present his birth certificate before enrolling him. I was frustrated at the time because he was obviously not of Mexican desent, but I applaud them now! I'm appauled by the wording of this article. It's hardly unbiased, which is what the writer is supposedly against. I'll now use better discretion before taking the words within Teaching Tolerance as the truth!
I have NO problem with what
I have NO problem with what the Commonwealth of Arizona did,the Feds are dragging their feet on this subject.Arizona was well within the Constitution in their actions.
How sad and I wonder how
How sad and I wonder how Christian? Did we forget that all of the Southwest states at one time belonged to Mexico. What stops the authorities from hasseling persons of spanish decent who are in this country and have been here for several generations?
I wonder what Jesus would say to all this?
Although there SHOULD be
Although there SHOULD be concern about racial profiling, I am rather disappointed that such inappropriate and somewhat "uneducated" fervor is being attached to this bill. It seems to simply be equipping the state to take action when a proper investigation has been conducted. Yes, now in America we will castigate the majority to avoid educating/offending/correcting individuals that choose to maintain a stance that might incorporate integrity, morals or the freedom of choice! We are literally destroying a generation of people by kowtowing to the "squeaky wheel", which is often bellowing about any need for compliance to some standard(s) that help a diversified nation run reasonably well. Those that eschew society maintaining some facsimile of kindness, unity or prosperity will find offense in most anything that tries to establish and maintain a reasonable standard. Our swiftly crumbling society maintains that there are no "Absolute Truths" and works overtime to prevent such. I recently heard someone say, ” Gravity does not care what you think about truth when you jump from a high building". Nor would east, west, north or south care about your opinion when you are lost. I would encourage more individuals to get off the roof top and come down and help those of use wanting to make a difference in the lives of many others! Reforming immigration laws to better allow citizens to legally join our nation sounds like a better use of those haranguing voices that deride anything that might seek to impose law and order with a consequence of justice! Although we are a seriously deteriorating society, I have a great hope in change that can restore us to a nation of opportunity and not a “Rome of the past”.
Educators should keep their
Educators should keep their political feelings out of supposed "unbiased" articles & the classroom. I am an educator myself, and a product of the AZ public school system. Examining people entering the US & enrolling in our FREE public school system is not "racial profiling." It is however, protecting tax payers from increased expenses for unlawful citizens receiving rights that are granted upon LEGAL US citizenship.
I am disgusted that you would include such an article on a website called Teaching Tolerance, and then proceed to tell educators to use this rubbish to "educate" students. This is not the purpose of education--to endoctrinate impressionable children with biased articles under the subtext of tolerance. I would never utilize this website for curriculum or instruction of my elementary school children if these are the types of articles you feel are "tolerant."
As an educator, it is
As an educator, it is important that we present both sides of any issue- you can not take our textbooks and provide those as absolute truths because they only give one point of view- everything is biased, nothing that we read is unbiased.
You can talk about any issue- present both sides of an arguement and have your students make their own decisions based on their own values and beliefs- that is what we call CRITICAL THINKING, something that many schools don't do anymore. We dictate and expect our students to absorb our points of view and spit them back at us. God forbid they challange us! That means they might think different? what a concept?!
I consider myself a revolutionay educator that expects revolutionay students to become the next revolutionary leaders of our country to replace teachers like you and others out there.
I truly understand your
I truly understand your point, but there are people who will easily abuse this law. I am a naturalized citizen and have never been "illegal". I'm from Eastern Europe and have a bit accent. (Well, everyone has an accent in here; each state has its own!) A few years ago I was involved in traffic accident. Another car bumped into my one in the red light. Although the other driver admitted that it was her fault, the police treatment was very unfair. He even questioned my legal status in USA asking if I had a social security number as he pushed my arm slightly. That was after I presented my driving license to him. The other driver was blonde, blue eyed and driving an expensive car. I have an olive skin with dark hair and I was driving a real trash. I live in NJ and try to stay away from that city as much as I can. It wasn't the only incident I have experienced or heard others experiencing.
I want our borders to be safe and everyone to pay taxes, too. But we need to find other ways to prevent any mistreatment of human beings.
Whenever I hear about Gov.
Whenever I hear about Gov. Brewer ,or anyone in "power",making a decision that will impact hundreds of lives, I often wonder if their conviction on such topics is properly backed up. Gov. Brewer cannot in any way relate to what the students are going through. I personally knew an extremely hard working young Latino man who was forced to go to Mexico because of his paperwork. I can honestly, yet shamefully, say that he was working alot harder than even I was as a "legal" U.S. citizen. Since I am in highschool right now I can truly attest to how much students in reality are being opressed. This Governor has added racial profiling to the mix of stresses such as AIMS/ACT/SAT and just the everyday responsibilities of living an economically strenuous life of an "undocumented alien"?... What is happening to this world? Actually I take that back, this has been happening for years and years. I suppose I should say: If this is what is happening now, what can it possibly escalate into?
Although I don't agree with
Although I don't agree with this OP-ED, it is a good outline of the "pro" position if one wants to teach this issue from different viewpoints: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/29/opinion/29kobach.html?hp
We’d like to thank everyone
We’d like to thank everyone for their passionate opinions. Please keep in mind that Teaching Tolerance’s main audience is educators. Because of that, we ask anyone making comments to focus on the impact this new law will have on students, teachers and school systems. We would also like to encourage educators to teach this controversy in their classrooms. Why do many people think this law is unconstitutional? Why do others support it? Why do many consider the law an open door to racial profiling while others do not? And how do students evaluate these conflicting opinions? Most of all, we’d like to encourage educators to show their students what it means to engage in civil discourse while they discuss such a contentious issue.
As Arizonans, we are showing
As Arizonans, we are showing our rancid/ignorant aspects. We are better than what this recent Arizona immigration law represents as it misrepresents our basic human rights and needs.
There has been more than one moment in our world history when infants, children, adults, and elders were forcibly removed from their homes, and communities. What existed after that was an absence of many distinctive and diverse presences of being... of being human: culinary aromas, a vernacular of laughter, a different language expressing a unique and also common take on our world and the realities within which we live, delicious foods that contain stories and heart, music that reach the human soul from additionally strong and rooted directions, fine arts that play within the cones of our eyes like a symphony, and movement of the body that has the absence of familiarity, yet universal codes and patterns of meaning and spirit of intent.
Currently, we are experiencing such absences throughout Arizona as infants, children, adults, and elders,... our families, feel unjust pressures from all three branches of our Arizona state government . Our current, yet temporary, political leaders are cringing to their own internal fears of our larger, inherent strengths via our natural diversity and inclusivity. As humans, during periods of difficult times, we tend to magnify our ignorance and project it upon one another, OR we choose to grow our roots and understanding of humanity broader and deeper. Our human decencies are nurished as we interrelate across families, communities, states and countries, with the purpose of assisting or serving one another.
As Arizonans, we have a question to answer. How will we choose to relate with one another (within ourselves)? The path we choose will hopefully reveal the strengths of our individual and collective character.
I'm extremely surprised that
I'm extremely surprised that there won't be any leeway for family ties, I'm against all racial profiling and this idea in its entirety, but punishment for simply being with your family is absolutely wrong.
I believe that in teaching
I believe that in teaching this issue, it is important to be as precise as possible and to carefully define your language. "Racial profiling" is a term often used in a negative light, essentially a substitute for an accusation of racism, as it implies regarding a given person as criminal based on their skin color. But if lifted from its accusatory connotations, it also designates a practice of the appropriate use of a physical characteristic when looking for a person who has that physical characteristic. If a crime victim described the criminal as being black, would the police be mistreating blacks to pay special attention to that physical characteristic? Also, the specific behavior of law enforcement related to racial profiling is very important: is it being used in an apologetic way, the way that is appropriate when an officer is approaching a citizen whose innocence is presumed? Or is it being used in a bullying fashion, as if the officer regards the citizen as guilty regardless of their actual guilt or innocence? The first, naturally, is a benign use of a practice that violates no one's civil rights and offends only those who seek offense; the second is the poster child of what critics of racial profiling are condemning.
Another thing that is important, perhaps the most important thing, is to teach the lesson as a question. The educator should be aware of the law; if possible, they ought to have read it. Then they can approach the issue as a question: does this language which I read from the law encourage or require racial profiling? If so why, if not why not? Does this other text change the first quote I read you? If racial profiling is encouraged, is it appropriate? What is the distinction between targeting a skin color generally and using skin color as one of the numerous identifiers when seeking a suspect? Is a citizen harmed by a request for identification? Does it violate their right against unreasonable search and seizure? Does someone who is illegally in the country have a reasonable expectation of the same rights as someone who is a legal citizen? Why?
I think those are valuable questions and avoids the teacher telling the students their personal truth and, instead, helping the students think about issues and determine the truth for themselves. After all, a student is only in a classroom with a teacher for so long and then they must know how to decide the truth for themselves without an educator telling them what the truth is. Educators have a duty to always work with that inevitable truth in mind.
My heart breaks at this law
My heart breaks at this law no matter how you dress it up it is going to still be ugly. I wonder did we step into a time machine??
I'm guessing that Arizona
I'm guessing that Arizona doesn't have agriculture and if they do who will pick their produce? I think that we should start charging Arizona fair market prices on produce to include the additional cost of medical insturance and a fair wage to farmworkers. We've fought and fought, this is the oppurtunity for farmers to start paying a living wage to those people putting food on our tables. They will not think about any of this until the bottom drops out of their economy.
I want to see scientific
I want to see scientific proof that this law will increase racial profiling. (Or for those who think it won't, that it will have no effect). I've seen a lot of rhetoric and polemic on this forum, and nearly no scientific or scholarly erudition.
Hooray for Arizona. We have
Hooray for Arizona. We have laws in our nation, but they are rarely enforced. Maybe this is the reason that we are becoming a third rate nation like Mexico and some of the other countries to the South. It appears that civilization and morality are now things of the past.
Non-documented invaders are illegal immigrants. They do get many benefits without paying into our system. They do stand on street corners and get picked up for various jobs, being payed in cash, as the government looks the other way. Why should these illegal men and women cross the border to the south, then be given special treatment on the path to citizenship? Why did we keep white Europeans from automatically getting citizenship? Why do we force Southeast Asians to go though a long extended process to become citizens by requiring them to learn English and follow the correct path to citizenship? Why do we unload millions from the Islands who are black, along with black Africans to come into the nation with special rules and citizenship?
Why do we give the illegals from Mexico and the people south of the border to enter our Nation, change our language and culture, and speak their own language easily? Our nation was first founded on the laws of our mother country England and Great Britain. Why do we have to learn Spanish now? Everything that comes across the border from the South is detrimental to our way of life, our laws, adds to our crime, brings our educational system down, brings our country to its knees. When you talk in normal conversation with these illegals they will tell you point blank thet you will learn Spanish and speak Spanish before they will ever learn to speak English. Most of them will not accept our flag or ideas. They are allowed to raise the Green and Red colored banner at home, in their markets, and anywhere else that they wish. Most will tell you that they are only here to make dollars to send to Mexico. Many want to send money to Mexico, then return so that they can join in the affluent few to control Mexico. I have seen very few that wish to become a real citizen of the United States. So why do these Liberal Organizations continue to support these undocumented illegal aliens or animals to take over and run us Americans in the ground as they laugh, joke about us, and continue to live among us and run our established culture into the ground? Why not also deport these left winged crazies to the South of the border and back to other nations. Our Government is destroying the nation from within. We shall never have to worry about foreign conquest. It has happened.
Neither mexicans or any other
Neither mexicans or any other race are invaders.
They all come here in seek for a better future
Yes, they come here illegally& yes it is considered a crime but it shouldn't !
we live in the country of opportunities !
Since when do u call looking for a Better life and
Working hard a crime?
It is ridiculous to pass a law like the sb1070
Here in the U.S
Aren't all men created equal?
Don't they have unalianable rights?
Life? LIBERTY? And the PERSUIT of happiness?
Some may argue that those laws are only for
U.S. citizens but, don't they do enough for OUR
Country? Don't they all deserve it?
Isn't working long hours and missing out on their
Children's childhood , teen years , and adulthood
Enough punishment ?
No human is illegal what so ever!
Only native Americans have the right to say
All these races are invaders because they were
Here first! Everyone else came and took over making
Them suffer!
Therefore, no one has the right to call any race invaders
When they are the ones who work in agriculture& do all the hardwork
While others who are young enough to work hold signs outside fast food restaurants reading "homeless"
Most of the commentary on
Most of the commentary on this issue has been written by people who have not spent the 5-10 minutes it would have taken to read the statute being discussed--inexcusable, and a bad mental habit. The statute applies to what police may do if they stop or arrest someone for a traffic violation or a more serious crime. It does not permit them to stop people on the street for looking Hispanic. It is in response to social welfare agencies, and the federal authorities, attempting to forbid local police inquiring into the immigration status of someone they have stopped or arrested. Please explain how this constitutes racial profiling, and we can begin the discussion anew.