DREAM Act.

Here we go 'round again!

I've written both of my Senators on this one, and I suggest you do the same. If I hear back from them, I'll let you all know...

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Senator (Boxer/Feinstein) -
I note that the DREAM act is coming around again, and I'd like to note my comments on the idea for you...

As you are no doubt aware, immigration - particularly /illegal/ immigration - is a very hot subject right now. For the record, I have no trouble whatever with /legal/ immigration - follow the procedure, and I'll welcome you with open arms. Make an attempt to communicate intelligibly, and it will get even easier.

Illegal immigration, however, is /illegal/ and /wrong/. Other countries will punish people severely for attempting to immigrate illegally - but we don't even deport? Instead, we give them assorted social benefits, education, housing, and the like - while United States Citizens are living out on the street.

I should know - for a brief time, years ago, I was one of those citizens. I pulled myself back up off the street, because that sort of life isn't something anyone should /want/.

With the DREAM Act, I figure you think you're trying to do something noble. I think you're half right.

I do not see how /education/ can be a path to citizenship. Particularly when it's /given/ to you, or available at reduced cost. I don't care that "your parents crossed the line and you came with them" - the problem is that they're not supposed to be here in the first place, and we have no idea what their allegiances become. Given the increasing trend toward "hyphenated Americans," I don't think they're going to be to America /first/.

Military service makes sense - you're showing your dedication to your adopted country by enlisting to service it, and in a combat capacity if necessary. Here are my thoughts on that:

1) Enlistment can be a path to citizenship. Not eligible for commission until at least one full term of service is completed.

2) Citizenship is not granted /until/ the first term of service is completed satisfactorily (discharged honourably or re-enlisted.)

3) Priority given to immigrants who elect to serve in a "line combat eligible" capacity - Army or Marine infantry or armor.

4) I don't see why general enlistment can't be available at US Consulates abroad as a path to entry - although some rigourous selection should be instituted (so we don't pick up just any schmuck off the streets of that country.)

Enlistment as a path to citizenship makes sense - as an example, I have known a good number of Filipinos who had obtained their United States citizenship through a Naval enlistment - and they were some of the most patriotic citizens I've ever met! I don't think you'd build that sort of attitude or character by allowing /education/ to be a proper path to citizenship - even if the student at question can maintain GPA < 4.0. (That merely shows they are able to learn. I've been to college twice, and my GPA is in the high threes...)

Senator, I think a revision to the DREAM Act detailing a "path to citizenship" through enlistment would be acceptable, while there should be no "path to citizenship" through education - there's no reason for that.

I am available if you would like to discuss this matter in greater depth.

Yours,

Jon D. Kelley