Immigration is a hot-button topic for the media and for politicians, and is an issue whose importance will only continue to grow. 

The number of new immigrants has been increasingly steadily.  According to the Center for Immigration Studies, approximately 1 in 8 Americans is an immigrant.  But America is a nation founded by and built by immigrants.  Now, new immigrants continue to enrich our country with their labor and contributions.   And now, they deserve dignity and respect, and not unfair barriers.  

Among those who should be given rights and an attainable path towards citizenship are illegal immigrants, who work and contribute to this country.  Without protection under the law, immigrants face the potential of abuse from employers and violence from others.  The children of illegal immigrants also shouldn't face undue burdens themselves, and be given fair opportunities to succeed in this country.  Tens of thousands of undocumented students attend college in California alone.  Students who have graduated from high school and qualify academically for college should have access to the education they have rightfully earned.

Giving immigrants a fair shot and rights doesn't only benefit them -- it benefits us all.  It creates a stronger society, economy, social infrastructure, decreases burden on social services, and strengthens the country overall.  

You can read more on this issue from the ACLU or the Bay Area Immigrant Rights Coalition.

Questions? Comments? Have your own ideas on these issues? Let us know.