Sure, three of the family members are illegal and the fourth, a minor is a citizen. Should all be deported? No. This loose use of the word “consistent” is irrelevant. The talk of “integrity of our immigration laws” is laughable. While it is impossible to look at the countless instances of illegals on a case by case basis, here we are offered one we can look at.
The valedictorian is by all definition a model citizen aside from the fact that he is not a citizen. Should he be made to suffer due to the long ago transgressions of his parents? Or should we reward the kid for rising to the top of his class by giving him a chance to pursue his education and possibly become an honorable citizen?
And what about the youngest, who is actually a citizen? If his parents are kicked out then he has to go with them. How is can that be considered a justifiable way to treat an American citizen? As the founding fathers made clear: you are born here, you are American. That should supersede all else. His parents, whether deserving or not, get a free pass because their son is American. It happens all the time with the families or spouses of naturalized or home grown citizens.
The whole thing is awash with complications. The local officials made the call and decided to let the kids stay to graduate. What is the harm in letting him continue his schooling? You got a hot shot student and an actual American. Whatever example we may wish to impart by being “tough” on immigration is outweighed by the example we set of America kicking out someone who actually is on the path to live up to the promise of America that so many are so proud to trumpet.
Bobby McGill
idlewordship.com
