A Little Immigration Reality

 I think it's time to discuss immigration, because a lot of you simply do not understand it.

The laws of the U.S. allow people to apply for asylum. Many, many immigrants have done that. They then have to wait for a judge to hear their cases, and this unfortunately can take as long as five years, perhaps longer. This is a result of Congress' inability to pass meaningful legislation to alleviate this situation despite multiple administrations of both parties pining for just that. 

Many of these folks have been in this country illegally for decades, building families, owning and renting homes, holding jobs, paying taxes, and contributing to the economy. Like the rest of us, they keep their heads down and live their lives. 

But yes, they remain here illegally, and there is no argument to that. They are now living in mortal fear of deportation back to a country they likely barely recognize. 

No one, not even the most left-wing person you know, has ANY issue shipping criminals back to the countries from which they came, believe me. Have at it. 

But it's these hard-working, yet still illegal, immigrants who present the problem. 

What do we do with them? Should they and their families be summarily forced from their homes and sent back? Or would it be more compassionate and right to allow them the chance to become legal citizens before taking such drastic action?

It's important that we all remember these people are likely no different from our own ancestors, who ponied up to Ellis Island over 100 years ago seeking a better life. Do not buy into the fear mongering of Trump and his ilk about how these people are somehow evil monsters hell bent of destroying America. 

Demand that your representatives fix the laws, not punish innocent people who are here seeking a better life. It is possible to be compassionate and still uphold the laws and have a secure border. 

Act like these people are your grandparents. Because they damned well could have been.