Monday, January 02, 2006

Tougher border enforcement keeps immigrants from going home

Immigrants would rather return to Mexico (during the months when they can't work here), where they have work and family, but can't risk the return trip. They're stuck here, living in deplorable conditions, not able to earn money, getting food from food banks and other charities. They are more of a drain on the system, and it's working to everyone's detriment. If these workers had some type of worker visa, they could travel legally across the border to work here and return home when the job is over. We need the workers, and the present system makes it worse for them. DP

Associated Press
The Mercury News, mercurynews.com: PARLIER, Calif. - Acres of leafless vineyards surround this town of 12,000 in California's San Joaquin Valley, the bare branches a stark reminder that in the middle of winter, there is little work in the fields.

Traditionally, many of the migrants who crossed the border illegally to plant and harvest returned home to Mexico by the time the winter fog unfurled over California's farm belt, emptying towns such as Parlier to spend Christmas and New Year's with family.

That annual migration has slowed dramatically in the past few years, as tougher border enforcement has prompted fears of capture and persuaded many immigrants to stay put - even if there is little work in the U.S.

Be sure to read the rest of this story! This is only a small part of it.

No comments: