While tens of thousands of people continue to pour into the United States from countries as far as El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala, to name a few, the threat to our nation’s security and sovereignty grows exponentially. This has caused many concerned citizens to wake up, rise up and organize rallies all over the country.
Normally, when there is a rally or demonstration, like those that recently took place in Murietta, California, things can get contentious. There seems to always be a few protestors on opposite sides of an issue who resort to name-calling and yelling at each other, which is not conducive to making any point. I’ve long wondered why not take the civilized route and have a reasoned debate.
At a recent freeway overpass rally, where six or so of us held up pro-enforcement signs for drivers to notice, there was a man who stood apart from the rest of us, as he was counter-protesting. Obviously, he was there to disrupt our protest, generate support for his cause, and attempt to make it difficult for anyone to accurately gauge the amount of support going in either direction.
While his sign said “Stop Deporting,” mine said “Enforcement, Not Reform” on one side, and “Amnesty Is Not The Answer” on the other. I don’t think it’s too difficult to figure out which position makes more sense. His sign suggests that we just open the borders, accept the lawlessness, and disregard the drain this puts on our economy. Mine makes concise, salient points that encourage the federal government to do the job it’s sworn to do and offer advice that, if ignored, creates a disastrous situation for the country and its citizens.
I’m always astonished when someone interprets my pro-enforcement message as harsh or heartless. The drastic situation the border patrol has been dealt calls for drastic action. Deporting those who have broken our laws does not equate to not having a heart. It’s quite the opposite, really. It might seem harsh to some but there are good reasons not to allow illegal border crossers to stay, just like there are solid reasons we follow the law: for the safety and protection of the American citizen, national security, and our nation’s sovereignty.
Some people just don’t seem to grasp the concept that the United States is a nation of laws. Fortunately, though, many do. While there were several drivers passing by the rally who gestured with their middle finger (as opposed to a thumbs down, which would have been more adult-like), support for enforcing our borders far outweighed the support for allowing unlawfulness. It goes to show you the manner in which each side takes. Those on the side of the rule of law conduct very peaceful rallies. The lawless crowd, on the other hand, hurl obscenities and middle fingers.
Instead of the middle finger, how about a debate?
