Cheap Labor

California and its residents have directly or indirectly benefited from the steady flow of cheap labor from south of our border. On occasion, even our senators and governors have tapped into this vast but illegal labor market. While some letter writers decry that illegal immigrants continue to “break the law” or that our state is morally bankrupt for allowing this to happen, we must all be found guilty of being willing participants in their use and exploitation.

The next time one feels like complaining about illegal immigrants, also consider the labor pool that was used to cut your lawn and collect trash, clean your house or office, pick fruits and vegetables, or be a nanny to your neighbor’s child. When all of “legal” California is ready and willing to shut the door to “illegal” California, it should also be prepared to pay the high cost of those consequences.

FRANK ARRIETA

Fountain Valley