IMMIGRATION

I recognize that practical solutions need to be found to the problems of illegal immigration, including the exploitation I have witnessed of undocumented workers. But I believe the solutions must look at the root causes, including economic and social problems and a system so difficult and inequitable that would-be immigrants resort to desperate measures. I strongly oppose immigration policies that forcibly break up families. I favor programs that will help immigrants integrate more successfully into American society. Given the fact that the overwhelming majority of Americans are immigrants or the descendants of immigrants, we need to recognize that, in general, immigrants are one of the most positive and energizing influences in our culture. Our attitude toward immigrants, legal or otherwise, should not be one of fear or enmity but of compassion, brotherhood, and appreciation. We need to work together as human beings, not divide into us vs. them.