Some UT organizations decided to stage a walkout today at 11:11 over the illegal immigrant issue (notice here). It appears that the House was being its typical, irrational self by proposing that it is a felony to immigrate here illegally and a felony to assist illegal immigrants. Furthermore, they wanted the deportation of any illegal immigrants, regardless of whether they contribute to society or not. Both sides have very valid arguments, and I have my own to chip in:

• Due to their unregistered status, employers could exploit them by paying less than legal wages. We need to stop that kind of the human rights abuses we accuse other countries of (that is, unless Americans would like to continue their tradition of doing so — if you would like some idea of what I mean, look up slavery, Indian reservations, segregation, and my favorite: The Chinese and the Railroad).
• It’s not fair that my parents went through the long process to get them and their family naturalized and let these illegal immigrants waltz right in and become citizens fast.
• America is a country of immigrants.

I think a good compromise bill would look something like this: Go ahead, tighten the borders by adding fences and stuff. But as far as the ones who are already here, let them have a path to legal citizenship as long as they are not causing any trouble.

Relevant links:

• News 8 Austin
• KXAN
• Click2Houston