No 'dream' education for those who earn it
(Published
December 4, 2007, in the Albuquerque Journal)
The Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors Act failed to
pass Congress by a 52-44 vote. The failure of the DREAM Act was perhaps
the best thing that could have happened.
This Act would somewhat concur with the 10 states that already allow
illegal immigrants to attend college at an in-state tuition rate –
New Mexico being one of those states.
As a Mexican-American, I must say that I have mixed feelings about this
Act. On the one hand, I understand that there are many illegal immigrants
with great capabilities, and passage of the Act would ensure that they
exceed their potential. Not to mention that they would be in the path
to legalization. This is great. On the other hand, this Act would undermine
American citizens, naturalized citizens and legal residents.
I must be clear that I believe everyone regardless of their legal status
should be entitled to a general education – that is K-12. Any
immigrant whether legal or illegal has far more potential for advancement
with a general education then without any education.
So why do I have mixed feelings? After all I am a Mexican – a
Mexican with legal status. I guess I am thinking selfishly. But not
really, I am also thinking of the many students who come from other
states to attend UNM and have to pay outrageous out-of-state tuition
rates while illegal immigrants get their education for next to nothing.
Some receive Pell Grants that far exceed what I get. I work 36 hours
a week, and I am taking 12 credit hours. I am tired. And yet my student
loans will exceed illegal immigrants’ student loans.
Don’t get me wrong I am one of those individuals who march and
protests for illegal immigrants. However, I don’t feel that everything
should be handed down to them on a silver platter. Why should it? Things
were never handed down to me on a silver platter.
So I must say that I am glad the Act failed to pass Congress. Many may
say that I am a hypocrite. Others may say I am acting on pure self-interest.
Well maybe I am.
I don’t mind paying taxes for individuals to get a general education;
for them to receive medical services if necessary, but not for a post-secondary
education. Sorry but pay for the education just like I am.
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