Illegal Immigrant Treatment

In reference to “Coming Home,” Jan. 1:

You paint a pitiful picture of a Mexican woman who, because of fear of persecution due to her illegal status, has to go back to her hometown. You also try to sell us the often-heard argument that these people just come to the U.S. because there is no other way. How about changing their country for the better, or fighting their corrupt government? Do not tell me that it is too dangerous--Mexico is not El Salvador!

To make it short, the typical illegal immigrant chooses the seemingly easier way for a better life. Or in other words, they have a very materialistic approach to life. That is fine, if we do not have to pay for it. American taxpayers also have the right to be materialistic and choose for whom or what they want taxes spent on; and, this is what Prop. 187 is all about!

FELIPE NUNEZ, Hermosa Beach

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In reference to Times readers’ letters of Dec. 29 criticizing Mexico for its expressed disapproval of Prop. 187 while itself violating illegal immigrants’ rights, let’s make a few things clear:

It is perfectly understandable for Mexico to express concern for its citizens abroad. Mexico’s stance against Prop. 187 is no more than what we would expect from the United States if its citizens should ever find themselves in such an unfortunate predicament.

Of Mexico’s dismal treatment of Salvadoran and Guatemalan migrants, Mexicans should be ashamed. Of Prop. 187, Americans should be ashamed. But, considering that Americans are quick to employ illegal immigrants when here, while Mexicans hardly ever do, we shouldn’t be so quick to judge Mexico.

ARTURO FERNANDEZ, Panorama City

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Regarding Harry Bernstein’s “A New Card Could Help Border Control,” Column Left, Jan. 3:

I feel this is a thoughtful article, but I disagree on a few points. Amnesty for illegal immigrants living in the U.S. for a period of time is appropriate after the problem is controlled, but if we offer amnesty too often will the laws be taken seriously?

Employers who knowingly hire illegal immigrants should be punished. However, it is wrong to make private citizens, spending their own money, the only ones responsible for enforcing immigration laws. If these people can demand proof of legal residency without violating anyone’s constitutional rights, so can our government before spending our tax dollars. Why can’t the police ask for this ID of people arrested for other crimes?

JOSEPH AREEDA, Los Angeles