This page was last updated on May 2, 2010.
Immigration law is tough but needed; Patrick Kennedy; Beaver County Times; May 2, 2010.
Below is a detailed critique of the subject letter.
“Singer Shakira has said she is going to Arizona to learn about its new illegal immigration law because she is worried about the impact the law will have on certain people. Many believe that this new law will lead to extreme racial profiling.”
[RWC] For background, Shakira Ripoll is not a U.S. citizen. Ms. Ripoll is a Colombian citizen and currently lives in The Bahamas.
“I feel that even though extreme racial profiling may occur, it is completely necessary for the future of our nation.”
[RWC] With supporters like Mr. Kennedy, who needs opponents? Unlike Mr. Kennedy, I believe a law that would result in “extreme racial profiling” would be wrong.
I’m not a lawyer, but news reports indicate the Arizona law is simply a state version of existing federal law and this allows state and local law enforcement officers to do what federal law enforcement officers already can do. In short, a person must be stopped for some other lawful reason, like speeding, before he can be asked to provide proof he’s in the U.S. legally. Even then, the officer must have reasonable suspicion the person is an illegal alien before making the request. This approach is similar to PA’s seatbelt law. If anyone in your car isn’t wearing a seatbelt, you can’t be charged unless you’re stopped for some other lawful reason.
People who claim anyone “going for ice cream” can be stopped appear to be lying or speaking out of ignorance.
“Every day more and more illegal immigrants are sneaking across the border. They are working for businesses at very low wages, under the table, causing us to not have as many jobs, and they get to live in America without paying taxes.
“They may also get free health care that will be paid for by working Americans.
“Something needs to be done about the huge illegal immigration problem in America. It’s nice to finally see one state actually taking action.”
© 2004-2010 Robert W. Cox, all rights reserved.