Mex-American

I'm sure we've all seen the chain email that claims that Mexico's immigration laws are an example that the United States should follow. Now, it isn't surprising that many of the laws listed actually aren't real Mexican immigration laws. But what if we take these laws at face value?

1. There will be no special bilingual programs in the schools.

In Mexico, bilingual programs do exist. But would that change anything in the US? When I graduated high-school, I did so without ever having to take a second language. And the students that do have to take a foreign language course have their choice of languages. But despite what the email would imply is the case, there's no nationwide motion to force all students to learn Spanish.

2. All ballots will be in this nation's language.

The USA does not have an official language, so this law would change nothing.

3. All government business will be conducted in our language.

This isn't true either, and just like #2, would change nothing.

4. Non-residents will NOT have the right to vote no matter how long they are here.

Non-residents in the USA already can't vote...

5. Non-citizens will NEVER be able to hold political office.

This is also already the case in the USA.

6. Foreigners will not be a burden to the taxpayers. No welfare, no food stamps, no health care, or any other government assistance programs. Any who are a burden will be deported.

Once more, USA non-citizens already can't take part in these programs. (Though children of illegal immigrants can be eligible if they are born in the US, and are thus US citizens.)

7. Foreigners can invest in this country, but it must be an amount at least equal to 40,000 times the daily minimum wage.

This rule is for those that want to become a permanent resident. The US already has a similar law.

8. If foreigners come here and buy land, their options will be restricted. Certain parcels including waterfront property are reserved for citizens naturally born into this country.

This is partial true. Foreigners in Mexico can own land, just usually not in their own name. Or you can obtain a 99% lease. But how is this an important law for the US? Mexicans buying up waterfront property in the US has hardly been a problem.

9. Foreigners may have NO protests; NO demonstrations, NO waving of a foreign flag, no political organizing, NO bad-mouthing our president or his policies. These will lead to deportation .

The US also has existing laws that can see you stripped of citizenship and even deported. But are demonstrations or speaking out really a problem?

10.. If you do come to this country illegally, you will be actively hunted and, when caught, sent to jail until your deportation can be arranged. All assets will be taken from you.

I don't know about the seizing of assets, but around here illegal immigrants are detained and then deported once they are found to be so.

So with all this considered, where is the supposed superiority in the Mexican system? It's sad that so many look at immigration with such contempt. Laws are important, but treating immigrants as less than human is never the answer.


-Brain Hulk

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