THE GREAT DIVIDE: ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION ON ONE DAY : IMMIGRANT RIGHTS ACTIVIST
- Share via
NAME: Nativo Vigil Lopez
AGE: 43
WORK: Co-national director of Hermandad Mexicana Nacional, an immigrant rights group.
HOME: Santa Ana
IMMIGRATION STATUS: Seventh-generation American. His ancestors lived in the portion of Mexico that later became the Southwestern United States.
“Immigrants are good for America. They always have been. America is a nation of immigrants, was built by immigrants, and continues to be shaped in cultural and linguistic diversity which makes the great nation a people that we are. Whether undocumented or legal, immigrants contribute more to our country than they receive in social benefits. This is a proven, undeniable fact of life.
“The current immigrant bashing is a symptom of weak economic times and poor political leadership . . .
“Mexican immigration to this country has historical roots, extended family ties, profound economic causes, and therefore will not be easily deterred.”
Sign up for Essential California
The most important California stories and recommendations in your inbox every morning.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
