Jubentino Morales holds a flag at the March for Just and Humane Immigration Reform on Friday May 1, 2009. Photo by Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman
With the passing of the healthcare legislation, Americans can focus their attention on the much more controversial issue of immigration reform. While the healthcare debate drew ideological lines between perceived socialists and capitalists, immigration promises to create all-new divisions — divisions dependent on skin color and nationality.
My hope is for a civil, pragmatic approach to immigration reform. Instead, I fear a debate purposely fueled by emotions linked to class, race and nationality. I do not look forward to seeing more frightening outbursts like this one by Fox News’ Bill O’Reilly.
As Americans attempt to confront the presence of millions of undocumented persons, let us remember the issue at hand is a human one. We are dealing with people, not statistics. And let us consider ourselves fortunate to have been born with the “right” of American citizenship.
'Redheaded Politics' will attempt to be fair and balanced in its critic of both the Left and the Right. My goal is to give a voice to the unwanted, "redheaded stepchild" that is individual liberty.
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