Illegal immigration is a touchy subject for some Americans. However, many unauthorized people cross the border into our coutnry, and never check out. How are they surviving? Surely not on welfare, because they don't even exist in our country. No, they're surving because they have jobs. Yes, I said it. There are plenty of illegal immigrants with jobs in America, thousands really. Just the thought that someone who isn't even supposed to be here in the first place has a job when millions of legal citizens don't, just makes my blood boil (especially in this economy). However, this article challenged my thoughts about illegal immigrants, and the work they find in the United States.
Americans often expect the best. Because of our high-standard society, we often think that as a part of it, we have already earned our keep. The article mentions that Americans can often find jobs, but that they do not care for the type of work, or that it doesn't pay enough, or that their schedule falls over their favorite t.v. show. The author makes a point that illegal immigrants are low maintenance, and don't expect a lot, seeing as they were just happy to escape from, say for example, an impoverished country. Illegal immigrants will take anything that pays, most of the time, making them eye candy for the average employer. Some businesses have hired large numbers of illegal aliens in the past because they can save money and the workers require adn expect less of their jobs.
Although I used to be angry at the thought of an illegal immigrant taking up an American job, it's almost entirely true that there is work to be found. It might not be as much pay, or benefits, or hours as one might want. However, it's a job, and in these tough times, anything that pays is a blessing (don't take this too literally).
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So I haven't read this article that you reviewed, but your summary and opinions were really good I think. I've often heard people grumbling about how illegal immigrants are taking up all the jobs that Americans need. But these same grumbling people usually fail to mention what you did, that Americans are just too picky about what job they want while immigrants will generally take whatever they can get. I think Americans should read this article or do some research before they complain, sheesh. So yeah, good job at getting the word out!
ReplyDeleteI too haven't read this article but agree completely with what you're daying. Our culture is permeated with "American Arrogance" and many people are too prideful to take the "blue-collar" jobs that are available. The illegal immigrants simply view any work as a blessing and Americans should start viewing the large amount of opportunity we find in our country beneficial as well.
ReplyDeleteI think you explained your thoughts on this writing very well. I do agree with you for the most part. To an extent I still believe that legal american citizens should have the first jobs available. At the same time I agree with you that the people of our country need to simply take what they can get rather than fighting for survival.
ReplyDeleteWow, I can't believe I missed reading this essay because it really seems like one that would interest me! I totally agree with you when you say that illegal immigrants who take American's jobs makes your blood boil! Then again, many Americans are unwilling to find work and find it easier to lay low and live their lives on government assistance! All in all, it's a tough call, but obviously I don't believe that people who aren't even legally living here should be given jobs!
ReplyDeleteYou've raised some interesting points...so are the people that hire illegal workers wrong--should they be prosecuted to the same extent that the workers are? Remember, we've had politicians and prominent businessmen outed for hiring illegals, so you're in line to demonize a cross-section of "good Americans." What do they get out of hiring those people?
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