Re: Refugees
So because it was so horrible an experience to you, it has to be a horrible experience to "this current lot." [Which phrase raises serious warning flags here.] I don't discuss this subject much here as I'm quite sure that no one would be the least bit surprised at my position on this topic, but here goes. I'm for completely open borders here in the United States with only two requirements. You apply for and get a work permit (updated type of green-card) and if you can't find work, or are unemployed for a long time, you go home. That's it.
I'm surrounded by refugees. The Central Valley (California) is a popular destination, has been since at least the Armenians. The latest legal immigrants are the Hmong who would have been killed at the hands of the Vietnamese for having the temerity to work with the US in Vietnam. The illegal population is mostly Latin American although they are usually from far farther south than Mexico. I'd accord them refugee status as well given the conditions in their home countries. In any case, this state wouldn't/doesn't function without illegals (agrarian/low-end service sectors) and legals. Most every professional you come across that has stayed here, or returned here, isn't "white." Not even close. And I like it that way. They're here because they want to be here. We have a ton of jobs here needing employees yet Americans are unwilling to take them at any wage. Our unemployment rate is double the national average, decades long. So, all I have to say to anyone that is opposed to immigration to where I'm at is: "Send MOAR!"
BTW, it's not often talked about either in the political and economic arenas but a dirty little secret about the federal government is that they don't want to fix the problem. Medicare would have run out of money ages ago and Social Security wouldn't have lasted so long without illegals using other people's Social Security numbers. Health & Human Services knows exactly who is using them and what firm they work for. All it would take to getting started on the 11 million illegals here is a computer print-out. Forbidden by law, interestingly enough, eh? Take that 11 million number with a huge grain of salt. That's "people of color." We have a hell of a lot more from Asia, Eastern Europe, Western Europe for that matter (Ireland, huge!), and even Canada. Yes, Canada. Whatever.
The track record around these parts is very clear. First generation low-end jobs, second generation assimilationist (invented a new word, woo hoo!) and college and/or starting business aspirationally (two!) professional. Third generation, thoroughly professional/business-executive and seeking to return to their roots. We have a ton of community festivals here at the local convention center and churches. Excellent Greek food to be had just last week.
So to sum it all up: "Send MOAR!"
[BTW, I enjoy working with non-White/non-male/non-heterosexuals (mix and match). In the military I consistently found that anyone not White-Male-Heterosexual that select group was seriously better at their job! I considered keeping them around a survival skill. I'm into keeping myself alive, or at least was. YMMV.]
Biting the hand that feeds IT
