Abstract This paper provides an overview of the various positive and negative views on immigration and immigrationreform. It also suggests that based on the research, the issue of immigrationreform should be more balanced. The paper further discusses how the issue of immigration is complex and includes ethical as well as economic and labor related factors. The paper concludes that a sense of balance and proportion is necessary in dealing with an issue of such complexity and sensitivity.
Outline:
Introduction
An Overview of the Issues in Immigration and ImmigrationReform Economic Aspects
Solutions
Conclusion
From the Paper "There is increasing number of contrasting views on immigration. One view is that often mentioned as a reason for not decreasing immigration controls is that, "Open immigration would destroy important American values." (Isbister, 1996, p.220) This is a view that is based on the fear that open immigration would result in the destruction of values and institutions in the United States. This is more clearly outlined in the following quotation. "The concern is one of absorptive capacity and the assimilative powers of the U.S. A massive influx of foreigners who were unfamiliar with and uncommitted to American political values might use the democratic procedures of the country to destroy the institutions that support those procedures. "(Isbister, 1996, p.220) There is also the related fear that unrestricted immigration would alter and affect American culture. This view is supported by studies which reveal that the current legal and illegal immigration figure is in excess of one million persons per year. However those in favor of more open immigration mention that the above views have led to racism, bigotry and economic exploitation which are in contradistinction to the spirit and constitution of the country. "
Abstract The author of this paper examines the issue of illegal immigration to the United States from Mexico and the need for reform in existing immigration laws. The paper's author postulates that the arguments put forward by opponents of immigrationreform are, for the most part invalid and based on racial stereotyping as opposed to reasoned argument. The author states that despite being "illegal", Mexican immigrants are an essential part of the US' work force and as such, deserve the same rights that are accorded to workers who are also citizens. Examples are given of state discrimination against illegal immigrants from Mexico as well as attempts by federal courts to give such immigrants a modicum of protection.
From the Paper "The Supreme Court began to challenge immigration laws in 1875 by ruling that individual states did not have the constitutional right to regulate immigration, as this was exclusively a federal issue. (Heer 37) From this time forward the Supreme Court and other federal entities have had the sole responsibility of enacting and enforcing immigration laws, many of which followed the traditional pattern of allowance only when the US had a need for labor. The first act was to level a head tax on immigrants, which would presumably answer the state's individual desires to bar paupers from entrance into the US. It is possible that many of the ensuing regulations and challenges to Mexican immigration have been as a result of the early sentiment that stresses that those in the direst economic need should not be able to enter the US."
This paper argues in favor of a proposal for illegal immigrationreform, which would require immigrating individuals to serve in the United States Armed Forces for a predetermined time of enlistment.
Abstract This paper explains that requiring illegal immigrants to serve in the U.S. army would solve two current major issues in the U.S.: illegal immigration and the rapidly declining military recruiting numbers. The author points out that, only taking into account the half million illegal immigrants that cross the border every year, the size of the army could be increased by more than one third by requiring all eligible immigrants to serve. The paper states that the first obstacle to this proposal is not money but a common language, which could be overcome by re-allocating the funds used for huge signing bonuses to teaching immigrants English. The paper concludes that this immigrationreform proposal would change totally the dynamics of how the United States maintains its standing army while continuing to keep good relations with Mexico and other neighboring countries.
From the Paper "As previously stated, one proposal to combat the massively declining recruiting numbers in the U.S. Armed Forces is with immigrant service members. A vast majority of people do not know that the first U.S. soldier killed in Iraq was a Guatemalan who first entered the United States illegally. He had been able to change his immigration status and showed his gratitude to his adopted country by joining the military and, in the end, giving his life. The U.S. Armed Forces are losing thousands of soldiers, marines, airmen, and sailors every year."
This paper addresses the debate surrounding immigrationreform in the US and argues that migrant laborers are a necessary component of the U.S. economy.
Abstract This paper discusses immigrationreform and the growing Minuteman Movement, in which armed vigilantes have taken to patrolling the border.
The paper supports border security but contends that immigration should be expanded. The paper explains that the country should validate what is occurring anyway and what is in fact required for the country's economic well-being.
Outline:
Overview
The Minutemen Project
Open-Door ImmigrationReform Conclusion
From the Paper "Immigration and immigration reform are issues central the United States (U.S.) and will continue to be important because of the U.S.'s historical encouragement of immigration and its ongoing reliance on foreign labor crossing the border from its Southern neighbor Mexico. The U.S. has several lengthy border with its neighboring countries; primarily Canada and Mexico. Because of Canada's high standard of living and developed economy, illegal immigration across the border with that country is minimal and not considered a priority. However, Mexico is a developing market with a large population and a high rate of poverty and therefore its citizens consider crossing the border into the U.S. and working primarily in labor positions as an opportunity to improve their quality of lives."
An analysis of the ImmigrationReform and Control Act of 1986 and how changing laws in state and federal immigration reporting requirements will impact company human resource offices.
Abstract This paper examines the ImmigrationReform and Control Act of 1986. It specifically examines the burden and the critical role of human resource staffs in complying with the rules and laws that were put into place with this act. Finally, the paper discusses the expectations that have been placed on human resource staff in hiring and managing their personnel. It also looks at how compliance with current and changing laws in state and federal immigration reporting requirements will impact employer human resource offices. A glossary of terms is included with the paper.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Chapter 1 - Introduction
The Role of Human Resources in a Business or Organization
Human Resource Personnel and Undocumented Workers
Literature Review
Books
Journals
Magazine Articles
Newspaper Articles
Web Site
Chapter 3 - Methodology
Historical Data
Compliance Audit
Walmart and Tyson Foods
Hotel Industry
Small Business
Private Employers
Existing Numerical Data
Chapter 4 - Results
Problems and Limitations
Chapter 5 - Summary and Conclusion
Index
From the Paper "The government's ability to impose and collect fines and penalties that support its departmental operations prove to be an incentive for aggressive enforcement. Human resource personnel must be diligent in hiring practices, and ensure that compliance is met on behalf of the organization they work for. The government is not going to accept an excuse of vagueness in law and reporting requirements as an excuse for non-compliance. However, the best approach seems to be wrapped up in the I-9 form. This form seems to be more important than any other in ensuring the compliance of an organization in attempting to accurately verify the status of new hires."
Abstract This paper examines the history of American immigration policy in an effort to shed some light on the current immigration policy reform asked for by President Bush. The paper also takes a position against a policy that would limit immigration into the country, suggesting that those in favor of immigrationreform are xenophobic conservative individuals.
From the Paper "Since the birth of the United States, immigration has played a vital role in shaping the country and its culture. Immigrants have literally built much of the country. Throughout early American history, immigration was for the most part unregulated and free up until 1882. Individuals and their families immigrated to America looking for a new life, land, and freedom from war, poverty, famine, or religious persecution."
Tags: groups, immigrants, discriminated, sentiment, majority, federal, government, population
Abstract This paper deals with the history of 20th century Irish immigration. The author focuses mainly around the third round of Irish Immigration into the United States, the wave directly after the potato famine. The author focuses on how the Irish immigrants fought and overcame the prejudices that they dealt with.
From the Paper "The Irish came to America in waves of three. The third was the most successful for the new immigrants. It was after the potato famine, in the beginning of the Progressive Era. However, the two waves leading up to this were what paved the way for the immigrants. The first and second waves were caused by periodic crop failure. Not only was farming potatoes their jobs, it was also the only food they had to eat. Rent on their properties began to rise and without being able to farm, the Irish had no way to pay off the rent. Even the women that had jobs lost them due to the failing linen industry. The Irish faced many economic as well as political issues."
Abstract This paper deals with the negative economic consequences of illegal immigration in the city of Los Angeles. The paper examines studies conducted, and statistics available, on the issue of illegal immigration, which show the negative consequences of immigration on the United States, focusing on Los Angeles. The paper explores whether illegal immigrants are overpowering the labor market, the tax structure, public health systems, public schools and the criminal justice systems in Los Angeles, and how this affects the city.
Table of Contents:
Outline
The Economic Effects Of Illegal Immigration In Los Angeles
References
From the Paper "The analysts, advocates of open borders, politicians as well as political groups who are against any forms of immigration control as well as enforcement initiatives argue that the illegal immigrants who settle in Los Angeles do have a net positive effect. But the opposite is considered to be true. (Illegal Immigration's Financial Impact) Quite a few studies have revealed the controversial outcomes of illegal immigration. According to a study conducted by the Federation for American Immigration Reform [FAIR], which is a group, supporting a reduction of legal migration based in Washington, D.C., states that the cost of immigration to our society is significantly very high."
Tags: violent, criminals, criminal, gangs, New, York, Chicago, Federation, for, American, Immigration, Reform
Abstract This paper examines special interest groups with regard to their role, their activities, and their influence, especially with regard to the immigration and gun control lobbies.
From the Paper "Special interest groups by definition are organized groups of individuals working together to shape public policy usually for a specific or exclusive benefit for its members. The National Rifle Association (NRA), for example, has an Institute for Legislative Action (ILA) which is the lobbying' arm of the National Rifle Association of America. ILA is committed to preserving the right of all law-abiding individuals to purchase, possess and use firearms for legitimate purposes, as guaranteed by the Second Amendment..."
Tags: special interest groups, PACs, immigration, gun control, NRA, Brady Campaign, Brady Center, La Raza, NCLR, National Council of La Raza, FAIR, Federation of American ImmigrationReform, lobbying, lobbyist, Congress, government, elections, campaign finance
Abstract "The ImmigrationReform and Control Act (IRCA), enacted in 1986, transformed American policy on immigration. The federal government, faced with an increasing tide of illegal immigrants entering the United States, abandoned its front-end approach of trying to control America's borders.
From the Paper "The Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA), enacted in 1986, transformed American policy on immigration. The federal government, faced with an increasing tide of illegal immigrants entering the United States, abandoned its front-end approach of trying to control America's borders. In its place, Congress crafted a back-end approach that required employers to verify the legal immigration status of all new employees. Employers who failed to confirm that status or knowingly hired illegal aliens faced stiff fines and even possible criminal punishment. This paper will examine the IRCA and how American businesses have coped with the law.
The U.S. may be a country of immigrants, but it has not always put out the welcome mat for newcomers. Northern Europeans were often welcomed, while Southern Europeans were frowned upon ..."
Abstract This paper discusses how since the beginning of the nineteenth century, the existence of slavery and the subverting of women's rights, both symbolic of fundamental inequality among all citizens within society, have urged American reformers to constantly call for social changes. It examines how these changes were heavily influenced by education reform, immense immigration, industrialization, urbanization and further development of national identity throughout the century. It analyzes how with the abolition of slavery in 1860s, the nature of the need for social changes, however, transformed itself from a want of natural right to that of political equality as new identities as free men and women emerged during the second half of the nineteenth century.
From the Paper "The repression of women had reached an all time high by the nineteenth century. Reformers called out for changes. The first step to the liberation of women took place at the level of education. The first all female college, Mount Holyoke College in South Hadley, Massachusetts, was established in 1832 by Mary Lyon. Other female colleges were founded in the years to follow, such as Elmira Female College in 1855 and Vassar Female College in 1865 both located in New York. Co-ed colleges began with Oberlin Collegiate Institute, Ohio in 1833, Antioch College, Ohio in 1853, State University of Utah in 1850, State University of Iowa in 1855, and the State University of Washington in 1861."
Abstract The paper discusses the political reform movements that tried to shape the evolving American nation into a more compassionate society. The paper discusses the rise of evangelicalism, or popular religious Protestantism, that addressed concerns about slavery, the welfare of the most helpless members of society, such as the mentally ill and the imprisoned and the political influence of immigrants, women, African-Americans.
From the Paper "From 1820-1850, America grew--geographically, it sprawled out into the Western territories, and economically, industrialism and immigration in the North created a more prosperous, but also a more diverse and divided society. In the wake of these changes, political reform movements tried to shape the evolving nation into a more compassionate society. Concerns about increasing the number of representative slave states in the legislature, questions about who would be politically influential in the America of the future (immigrants, women, or African-Americans), and concerns about the most helpless members of society, such as the mentally ill and the imprisoned, became thrust to the forefront of the American political consciousness. America began to define its value system, and this self-definition did not come easily, as the Southern half of the nation had a very different vision than the Northern part of the nation as to what constituted American morality and justice."
Tags: evangelicalism, slavery, mentally, ill, immigrants, women
Abstract This paper looks at the realities behind the remarkable success story of the U.S. Welfare Reforms. The statistics show huge gains in employment and standard of living, but this paper shows that many of the improvements are temporary and not always correct in real terms i.e. U.S. median wage same as it was 27 years ago. Also discussed are race issues, how it is easier for whites to move out of welfare, whilst for ethnic minorities it can be seen as punitive. The paper contains many governmental figures and independent statistics showing alternative realities.
From the paper:
?The Welfare Reform Act of 1996 looks like a smashing success: it has successfully reduced welfare rolls by more than half, and cut the number of welfare recipients from 4.6 million to 2.4 million in 1999. Many welfare recipients have left the system. Instead of receiving cash grants, parents had to learn skill sand enter the labor force. They also faced a five-year lifetime limit for welfare assistance.
"But numbers are never simple. The truth is that few are thriving in this new system. The numbers show success, but if one looks beneath the surface to find out if women have truly become self-sufficient, a different story emerges. In many ways, the welfare reform act is a broken promise. Women have not truly received help to access decent jobs, and have not gained economic independence.?
Abstract This paper analyzes the history of U.S. immigration policy. The paper reviews the problems associated with previous immigration policies and the essential tenets of the proposed program. The paper then takes a look at the viability of the proposed policy being considered in Congress.
From the Paper "The implementation of either bill, or a similar revision regarding immigration policy, will be a difficult one both socially and politically for many of the individuals involved. The employers who have illegal workers on their payrolls will have to admit to paying foreign workers, and will definitely feel an economic effect from having to pay these workers a fair wage. Additionally, politicians face a lack of public support for either decision they make on this issue; the public nature and the controversial subject matter will make the immigration bill an important factor in the midterm elections. Cultural and social support for the measure will be counterbalanced in many areas with the anti-immigrant sentiments seen in the House bill, especially in areas where the focus on national security and protectivist economics are more popular than the civil rights and free trade movements are. Actual implementation of immigration reform, once passed in the legislature and approved by the President, will require social activism on the part of communities to encourage compliance with the measure, much in the way that the civil rights movement of the 1960s still required individual communities to demonstrate support for the measures implemented by the federal government before they became policy and standard behavior locally. The immigration reforms will require the same mixture of social and public awareness as well as the executive powers of the government (especially with regard to the business aspects involved) to effectively implement reform."
Abstract This paper explains the harmful effects of illegal immigration on the United States' economy. The author presents evidence to support his claim that illegal immigrants affect the economy in a negative way. It then suggests ways to limit those effects and describes the most effective ways for the government to deal with this ongoing problem.
From the Paper "One of the many ways illegal immigrants harm our nation is by using our government services. Each year, more and more undocumented aliens are coming to our country to get free education, health care, protection (fire and police departments), and other services, such as ESL (English as a Second Language) without paying taxes. It is estimated that eighty-six percent of all school-aged illegal immigrants attend public schools (Huddle 76). Undocumented foreigners also make up seventeen percent of all inmates in prison, costing us money to pay for their keep (Elsner). This would not bother me if these immigrants were paying for their services."
