...American society. Every ethnic group and nationality brings new perspective, a different behavior, and traditions, all things that one cherishes. In seeking their piece of the American dream, immigrants bring richness and diversity to American culture. They thus improve the quality of life in America. Unfortunately, people cannot make policy on such ideals; instead, they focus on statistics and disregard the culture that enriches their lives.

Undocumented immigrants are a growing percentage of the U.S. population, numbering nearly eleven million nationwide.' As their numbers grow, so too does the debate as to whether or not they should receive social service benefits provided to American citizens. Some Americans argue that undocumented immigrants should be denied all such services because they do not pay federal taxes; they are "illegal" citizens and a drain on government services and the economy. Denying public services to undocumented immigrants, they claim, will discourage them from entering the country.

Such reasoning will not stop unauthorized immigration to the United States. Most immigrants come to the U.S. for better work opportunities and higher wages, not services. According to U.S. Representative Luis Gutierrez (D-IL):

immigrants to this country are not fighting for a handout; they are not here merely for a student loan or food stamps or access to a free clinic.... They are fighting to have all of the opportunities that they are denied in their native countries: a chance to work at a decent job and make a decent living, the opportunity to educate their children, the opportunity to have decent shelter and clothing. They want to contribute to a better America. (2)

Undocumented workers will continue to enter America as long as there are jobs and employers willing to hire them. Congress and state legislatures are hesitant to enact laws which will affect employers adversely. They do not want to upset the business community which understands America's need for these workers and their contribution to the nation's economy. It is therefore hypocritical for U.S. immigration policy to welcome these immigrants...

NOTE: All illustrations and photos have been removed from this article.



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