Introduction to Immigration Reform: The Ongoing Debate

Immigration reform is the political term for proposed changes in U.S. immigration policy. Those who favor immigration reform claim that the current immigration system fails to function as it should. In 2005, U.S. lawmakers began a new campaign for immigration reform. Opinions on how to best change current immigration laws are diverse, from establishing a system of open immigration to curtailing most immigration altogether. Some assert that immigrant families are subjected to undue hardships and separations because of a stagnated visa system, or that undocumented immigrants who have lived and worked in the United States for several years should be givien a path to citizenship. Others claim that illegal immigration poses a national security risk or that undocumented immigrant labor adversely affects the wages of all U.S. workers.

The debate is not limited to the halls of Congress or state legislatures. Public opinion is also divided on soultions to immigration issues. Strong feelings on immigration issues provoked stong actions. Scores of citizens have joined organizations that send volunteer-vigilantes to patrol the U.S.-Mexico border and search for undocumented immigrants. "The Minuteman Border Patrol" features images and discussion about one such controversial group. In the spring and summer of 2006, millions took to the streets to demonstrate on behalf of immigrant-friendly immigration reform. "500,000 Pack Streets to Protest Immigration Bills" describes one of the largest gatherings, presenting a look public opinion on immigrant reform in both immigrant and non-immigrant communities.

While immigration reform is often debated in the abstract, this chapter provides personal stories of those whose everyday lives are affected by immigration law and policy. "Amy's Story" is an account of one undocumented immigrant, raised and educated in the United States, who finds her undocumented status is a barrier to college education and lucrative employment. "Immigrants Lament: Have Degree, No Job" features similar accounts of the difficulties encountered even after college. Creating educational opportunities and a path to citizenship for undocumented children brought to the United States by their families has been a popular reform goal for several years. "An Irish Face on the Cause of Citizenship" dispels the myth that all undocumented immigrants are from the Americas.

At the heart of the debate over immigration reform are difficult questions about human rights, economic opportunities, national security, racism, xenophobia, poverty, exploitation, social policy, and employment. What are the responsibilities, if any, of more affluent nations to their less-affluent neighbors? How does international policy—from war to trade—affect immigration? What national concerns should, or can, be addressed through immigration policy?