LET'S SAY I BREAK INTO YOUR HOUSE
Recently large demonstrations have taken place across the country protesting
the fact that Congress is finally addressing the issue of illegal
immigration. Certain people are angry that the US might protect its own
borders, might make it harder to sneak into this country and, once here, to
stay indefinitely. Let me see if I correctly understand the thinking behind
these protests.
Let's say I break into your house. Let's say that when you discover me in
your house, you insist that I leave. But I say, "I've made all the beds and
washed the dishes and did the laundry and swept the floors; I've done all
the things you don't like to do. I'm hard-working and honest (except for
when I broke into your house).
According to the protesters, not only must you let me stay, you must add me
to your family's insurance plan, educate my kids, and provide other benefits
to me and to my family (my husband will do your yard work because he too is
hard-working and honest, except for that breaking in part). If you try to
call the police or force me out, I will call my friends who will picket your
house carrying signs that proclaim my right to be there.
It's only fair, after all, because you have a nicer house than I do, and I'm
just trying to better myself. I'm hard-working and honest, um, except for
well, you know.
And what a deal it is for me!! I live in your house, contributing only a
fraction of the cost of my keep, and there is nothing you can do about it
without being accused of selfishness, prejudice and being anti-housebreaker.
Oh yes, and I want you to learn my language so you can communicate with me.
Why can't people see how ridiculous this is?!
