Myths and facts about immigration

(Editor’s Note: This is the fifth in a seven-part series of immigration reform articles prepared by the Indiana Catholic Conference. Capsule forms have been prepared for use in parish bulletins. Diocesan newspapers throughout the state have agreed to publish the series in its longer form.)

Perceived myth: Better border enforcement will solve the immigration problem.

Known fact: From 1986 to 1998, the Border Patrol’s budget increased sixfold, and the number of agents stationed on our southwest border doubled to 8,500.

From 1993 to 2004, spending for border enforcement nearly quadrupled. Yet, the number of unauthorized arrivals increased.

Moreover, U.S. border enforcement strategies have channeled migrants to more remote crossing points, resulting in increased fatalities, a growth in smugglers and traffickers, and reduced chances of apprehension.

Insufficient legal avenues for immigrants to enter the U.S., compared with the number of jobs in need of workers, have significantly contributed to this current conundrum. (Source: Immigration and Naturalization Web site)

Doesn’t illegal immigration threaten our security?

Some immigrants are illegal (undocumented) because they are denied entry for work or to be reunited with family. They seek to come legally, but cannot because the law’s limits are unrealistic.

People wish to come to work, to make a life for themselves and their families, and to contribute to the

well-being of the community. They do not come to harm the U.S. or its citizens.

Others are illegal because their student or work visa has expired. While they may have a job, they cannot change their status because of the backlog of requests and the limits (quota) for visas each year.

The limits are reached usually within the first two months of the year. Even persons with professional degrees and experience are limited. The system must be changed and updated.

Border enforcement alone will not keep out persons determined to do harm. Only a policy that addresses the push and pull factors that compel most immigrants to come will enable border patrols to do their job.

When border procedures allow for immigrants to come through regular channels, the U.S. will be able to know who is here and why.

Border agents will also be able to use resources to concentrate on those seeking entry outside the system who may wish to do harm.

The U.S. would be better protected with a policy that takes into consideration the reasons people immigrate. †