|
|
State Legislature: Where Cultures Collide
 I met a diplomat today. A man
that is very skilled at seeing and understanding many sides of the
immigration issue. Joe was taking a break outside the State
Legislature building. The job that earns him income is as janitor at
the Arizona State House of Representatives.
Joe has talked about immigration issues frequently with
family and friends. That’s clear because his thoughtful discussion
indicated that he does not believe illegal immigration is a black
and white issue. He says he can understand the need to protect the
borders, limit immigration, and follow laws. Joe related, “That is
one of the reasons this country is so orderly.” When an immigrant
runs from an accident or crosses the border illegally, he feels it
reflects poorly on other Chicanos.
When I asked him how that happens, he explained that after
the March 27th demonstration many secretaries who worked in the
building asked him why the marchers were waving the Mexican flag. He
replied to the secretaries that he did not know. They came to him
assuming that he was somehow involved, “because I’m Hispanic.” (Joe
and his parents were born in the U.S.) Joe shared that he did not
know anything about it, so he researched the demonstration on the
internet and learned about some of the participants.
Joe felt that there would be more of an impact if they were
carrying the American flag, if the young participants were educated
on the issues and continued to be peaceful in future demonstrations.
Joe expressed compassion for the difficulty in making a living in
Mexico. He knew young men who would love the chance to earn a good
living or go to school. He asked if law abiding people came here and
learned, they might go back to their own country with skills and the
desire to improve the homeland. Joe added, “Now wouldn’t that make a
good ally to have on your border?” Good question.
the march
|
