Arguments Against Illegal Immigration

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It is often argued that undocumented criminals are draining the system and endangering American society. Opponents claim that illegal immigrants take up a large percentage in federal prison, which is costing taxpayers billions per year. Many of these immigrants are released back into society to re-commit crimes which they have been arrested for. Another claim is that immigrants broke the law with their presence and that alone should impede immigrants from any form of amnesty. Despite the 1986 law which made it illegal to hire undocumented workers, employers are still filling available positions with immigrants because it is cheaper. On “Illegal Immigration”, Ira Mehlam argues that young immigrants shouldn’t be granted a pathway to citizenship because it would …show more content…

According to Steve Chapman on “Illegal Immigration, Opposing Viewpoints”, he states, “Actually, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, the correct figure is 14 percent, and many are just in for violating immigration laws.” Furthermore, only 5% are in prison for violent crimes. Studies done by Robert Sampson, a Harvard sociologist have shown that it is actually the second and third generation Latinos who are committing felonies. This is unfortunate because it encourages stereotype mentalities to others who then see all Latinos as felons, especially immigrants. Opponents fail to see that most immigrants are living scared in their daily life. They know that one wrong move or anything that might get them into trouble can have them deported and taken away from their families. Hence, they tend to obey the laws much more once they’re in the U.S. There are indeed some immigrants who deserved to be deported. Those 5% or less who were convicted of serious crimes should not be welcomed. Nevertheless, those whose only civil offense is living in the country should be given an opportunity to adjust their

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