Immigrant Children
As an educator, I am profoundly disturbed by the legislation proposed by Rep. Elton Gallegly (R-Simi Valley) and supported by Rep. Anthony Beilenson (D-Los Angeles), to deny U.S.-born children of undocumented parents the right to U.S. citizenship.
Studies show that immigrants contribute to the economy with their labor, taxes and as consumers. They are willing to work long hours at jobs other Americans don’t want and suffer insults and discrimination in exchange for the hope of a better life for their children.
Their children who make up a large majority of the school population should not be viewed as a drain on public resources, but rather as an investment in the future. These students are especially appreciative of school and very motivated to improve the lives of their families through education.
Similar negative judgments were made about the wave of Jewish and Italian immigrants who flooded New York in the early part of the century. It’s sad to see Beilenson, formerly a liberal of conscience, now aligning himself with a conservative politician from Simi Valley.
Why must children again, become the victims of political expediency?
LILA SILVERN, Coordinator
Emergency Immigrant Education
Assistance Program, LAUSD
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