By
Andrew Doughman
November 9, 2009
A compass might have changed Alonso Chehade’s life. A journey southward from Bellingham to Seattle went awry when Chehade, an undocumented immigrant, accidently drove northbound on Interstate 5, all the way to the Canadian border.
After customs officials at the border discovered his immigration status last March, they sent the 22-year-old UW alumnus to an immigration detention center. While he was released on bail, he now has one week left in the United States before he faces deportation to Peru, the country his family left when he was 14.
But the UW business-school graduate has not resigned himself to leaving the country.
“I haven’t thought about that,” he said in The Daily’s office last week. “My family is here.”
He has not packed a single bag.
Instead, Chehade has mobilized followers through social-networking Web sites to lobby on his behalf.
Since March, Chehade has politicized his case and spoken out for national legislation like the proposed Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act, which would open up avenues to citizenship for undocumented immigrants brought to the United States as minors.
“He’s a smart guy. He’s a really, really smart guy, and he’s been able to refine different techniques and has done himself what it’s taken whole national networks of folks to do,” said Roberto Gonzales, a UW professor whose research has focused on undocumented immigrant youth.
Using Facebook, a personal Web site, and a flurry of public appearances to further his cause, Chehade has garnered support from two pro-bono attorneys and politicians like Seattle congressman Jim McDermott, who introduced a bill on his behalf. Chehade and his supporters have also lobbied Washington state Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell to take up his cause.
In the face of imminent deportation, Chehade said he hopes to win a last-minute deferral which would allow him to remain in the United States for anywhere from several weeks to a few years.
This type of publicity has earned some young immigrants deferrals already. Yet, as these cases continue to pop up throughout the country, some groups have spoken up against lawmakers who push for deferrals for individuals. Members of groups like Americans for Legal Immigration have argued that anecdotes like Chehade’s should not deter legislators from their duty to uphold immigration law.
Their critique, however, has not deterred Chehade. As his departure date creeps closer, his campaign has ramped up its efforts. More than ever, he said, he has to keep busy.
“I need to keep moving every day,” he said. “I’ve been doing a lot, going to events. … I guess my philosophy is that if you work for the best, expect the best.”
If he stays, he said, he wants to use his situation to further push for legislation like the DREAM Act that might give him and other undocumented university students a chance at legal residency.
Whereas most undocumented students remain quiet for fear of reproach, Chehade said he has nothing to fear since his undocumented status is already public.
“Life has given me the opportunity to help myself and others who can’t really speak for themselves,” he said. “I don’t focus on the problem; I focus on the solution.”
Reach reporter Andrew Doughman at news@dailyuw.com.
59 Comments
#1 Prentice
on November 9, 2009 at 7:19 a.m.(New York, NY | Unverified Name)
Good luck Alonso. Keep hope.
#2 Holland A.
on November 9, 2009 at 9:34 a.m.(UW Campus | UW Community)
He is here illegally, what is so hard to understand about that.
I guess I wish I knew more info, this article tells us nothing but a sob story. For example, does he have a job? Has he tried to get a work visa or done anything to stay here legally, or has he just been hiding out in the US. Also, did he go to UW with a student visa, or did he go here as an undocumented immigrant? If so, did he pay out of state tuition or in state? Lots of questions.
My one last problem, is should we give him a pass when other people get deported, just because he has connections? We need to have policies that don't favor people.
#3 Kuzma
on November 9, 2009 at 9:52 a.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name | UW Community)
You speak words of wisdom, Holland A. As a legal immigrant, I can tell you that there are ways people can get green cards in the United States. It should be especially easy for someone in Alonso's position.
But I don't think he should be getting any special treatment. For example, he shouldn't be getting in-state tuition and state senators shouldn't be working to pass laws that will benefit only him.
Just a sob story..
#4 Mia
on November 9, 2009 at 11:23 a.m.(San Marcos, CA | Unverified Name)
I sympathize with Alfonso’s story but not with those misleading comments, I realize that people are misinformed and ignorance is the worst path to make a wise opinion. I am a dreamer too, and I know a lot of people just do not understand how hard it is to go through life. We did not chose of coming to this beautiful nation. However, the majority of us, dreamers, have tried to give back something to this country, “our nation”, from much that had given to our people. Look many of us have worked our way to have a higher education, but just can get jobs to exercise our major. This in result will benefit the economy, because we are spenders and most of us pay taxes. Nevertheless, we do not get any in return… many of us have worked as janitors, flipping burgers, in too many jobs to pay for our tuition…we had have sleepless nights, struggling to study and at the same time support our families. Otherwise, we won’t be able to make it. Despite, all obstacles we have fight back to overcome prejudice…. And we have demonstrated to all that we are not waste but the hope for this country to get better…
#5 Tyson Devereux
on November 9, 2009 at 11:25 a.m.(Dallas, TX | Unverified Name)
Laws to benefit just him? Are you serious? Look around you, there are several people you don't even know that are in his same situation. People who have been here their whole lives and want to be American and want to have the benefits that we only take for granted. And the government can just come and take all that away, for a crime that he never committed because he came as a child. If you do not understand this story, and the stories of countless others all around you, then you truly don't understand American values
#6 Andrew D.
on November 9, 2009 at 12:10 p.m.(Seattle, WA | UW Community)
To Holland A.
I am the reporter. I wrote a parallel story that appeared side-by-side with this one on the front page. Unfortunately, that "link" in the paper version didn't translate very well onto the internet.
Here is the link to that story:
http://dailyuw.com/2009/11/9/alonso-c...
It should answer the questions you have about his employment, how he got into the UW through a state law specifically regarding undoumented immigrants, and (this is connected to that law) how these undocumented do receive in-state tuition in Washington state if these meet certain criteria.
I hope that clears up some confusion regarding this story.
-Andrew Doughman
#7 Andrew D.
on November 9, 2009 at 12:12 p.m.(Seattle, WA | UW Community)
Typo, typo, typo!
Should've read:
*how these undocumented IMMIGRANTS do receive in-state tuition in Washington if THEY meet certain criteria.
#8 Dylan
on November 9, 2009 at 12:50 p.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name)
As much as I do not agree with immigration policy, you can't say that this is a "great" country without acknowledging that our immigration policy could have something to do with that. But you are saying to change it?
This is a very rare time that I will be on the same side of an argument as Kuzma, but you can't live here and pretend that conservative policy has nothing to do with our nation's history of success. Also, I am looking into moving to another country. I will pay the fees and fill out the paperwork necessary to be there legally. Just because you disagree with the bureaucratic nonsense does not mean you should be able to avoid it, even if you are an upstanding, productive member of society.
#9 Brian Cox
on November 9, 2009 at 2:02 p.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name | UW Community)
10.2% unemployment.
And you ask me for sympathy for a man who is here illegally? No, not a chance. I'm sorry; my sympathy is elsewhere right now.
#10 Legal Resident
on November 9, 2009 at 2:21 p.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name | UW Community)
I really do not understand all the sympathy for those who willingly come to this country illegally and he expects to be treated the same as those who follow the rules.
Do we all now get to choose which laws we want to obey? Should I stop paying taxes becuase I don't like to way they are spent?
Alonso Chehade has received a world class education that allows him to build a great career in Peru and while he does that can apply the legal way to enter this country and continue as a permanent resident and maybe citizen down the road. Peru is not Iraq, he will be fine when he gets deported. He is not a victim, if anything he is a criminal.
#11 sarah
on November 9, 2009 at 2:21 p.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
Let's be clear: undocumented=illegal immigrant. My dad managed to get his citizenship here before completing a college degree. It is a slap in his face when others receive special monetary and legal treatment. So, you didn't have a choice as a small child. In AMERICA you are legally responsible for yourself at age 18. I cannot abide those who remain illegally and drain the education system, the job market, and the healthcare provisions, particularly when there are plenty of US citizens struggling to gain a foothold in these areas.
#12 Sean K.
on November 9, 2009 at 2:49 p.m.(UW Campus | UW Community)
Which one of you "belongs" here?
Which one of you are not an accident of history?(and a rather gruesome one at that).
The ground you stand on is the manifestation of chance, and the self-righteous tone expressed here is nauseating.
#13 Brian Cox
on November 9, 2009 at 3 p.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name | UW Community)
There was no "accident" here Sean. His parents INTENTIONALLY brought him here illegal. Yeah, sometimes children are victims of their parent's misdeeds. That's life. It doesn't make it less wrong.
#14 Legal Resident
on November 9, 2009 at 3:08 p.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name | UW Community)
I work hard, I obey the laws, I work for everything I get, I help those in need. No one deserves to be here, that is why it is important to never forget what an honor it is to be a citizen/resident of the US. I never forget for a second what a special country this is that allows me to work hard and achieve.
Just becuase someone is born in another country does not mean that they can break the law and expect to be treated like anyother law abiding citizen. First you must prove you can follow our laws before you should be allowed to enter. There is no reason that the legal process should keep someone from entering the county, it is what I would do if I were in the same situation.
And Sean K, if you don't like it here immigrate to Canada.
#15 Joe D.
on November 9, 2009 at 5:16 p.m.(Location Unknown | UW Community)
So hi family came here 14 years ago? That means that he had no input on this action-he was fing 8 years old then. This is not a man who at 18 or 30 decided to overstay visa or sneak in to the US. This was a child brought by adults. So now he is an adult-well to my mind he played by the rules to get this far.
#16 Krusty
on November 9, 2009 at 5:43 p.m.(Los Angeles, CA | Unverified Name)
Folks have you ever taken a critical thinking course?
#17 Krusty
on November 9, 2009 at 5:53 p.m.(Los Angeles, CA | Unverified Name)
I ask this because the DREAM act will not only help kids that were brought here at the ages of 14 but from age 1-16 and that have graduated from H.s etc.. I met a guy who is came here when he was 3years old. What should I tell him, hey you know when you were 3 years old you broke the law. Come on stick your heads out of your asses.
When congress talks about an Immigration Reform the first thing they say is we want immigrants that are educated and know the language. If this proposed legislation doesn't pass you know what that tells this kids. That America is full of hypocrites.
These kids have managed to thrive in school despite having no financial aid. People talk about them competing with US kids. That's exactly what we need. America needs to wake up and see that our companies are getting hammered by Asians and European companies who have already invested 10 years ago in hydrogen cars.
They know the language and they're smart. Lets give them a chance.
One more thing people talk about waiting in line and playing by the rules. Folks that's exactly why they're fighting in the first place because the system is broken. We need to reshape our current system. As I mentioned above, the friend that I know has been here since he was 3 he is now 24. He unfortunately has no law that could legalize him. To me if you have been here that long, have a clean criminal record and have attended school and still can't become at least a legal resident, to me that means a BROKEN Immigration system.
#18 Tyson Devereux
on November 9, 2009 at 6:27 p.m.(Grand Prairie, TX | Unverified Name)
Thank You Krusty. We are overseas trying to bring "Freedom" to other countries out of our American responsibility, and we can't even accomplish that in our own country. Legal Resident - you should be locked up for purgery for a lie you told when you were five. That's exactly the logic our immigration system is working on. These immigrants who have come as children have done nothing wrong.
Krusty is right, these immigrants have worked harder than any american to acheive the same results like graduating high school. These are people who want to be American while many of us take our rights for granted (if we even know anything about our rights). So instead of trying to "Free" other countries, we need to work on freeing our own people here. We are not asking for favoratism, we are asking for justice.
#19 Holland A.
on November 9, 2009 at 9:01 p.m.(Kirkland, WA | UW Community)
Andrew: I saw your article shortly after I commented, thanks for clarifying though.
A few points
1. Regardless of how you feel, he is breaking the law, and must pay the penalty. We cannot operate as a society if we don't enforce laws.
2. Just because someone is politically connected, shouldn't mean they get special treatment. People are deported daily, but no one hears about, why is he so special.
3. If you are going to say that someone who graduates from college should get special treatment, but not anyone other child brought here by their parents, you are being hypocritical.
4. Finally, people brought here by their parents and who attend college can still apply for citizenship and become documented, he did not. Instead he has been hiding from the law, and working crappy jobs. If it hadn't been for the fact that he doesn't know north from south (One thing his UW degree didn't teach) he would have continued living in the US illegally.
5. The argument is easily made for reform, but the laws we have here are similar to most countries, Americans get exported from Europe for living and working there, but we don't create a movement to protect their rights.
#20 Holland A.
on November 9, 2009 at 9:11 p.m.(Kirkland, WA | UW Community)
1 more thing, making comments such as "Krusty is right, these immigrants have worked harder than any american to acheive the same results" is just plain stupid.
Really? Any American?
Can we refrain from such language, as well as refrain from assuming that people who disagree with us are ignorant and stupid.
"I realize that people are misinformed and ignorance is the worst path to make a wise opinion"
"Folks have you ever taken a critical thinking course?"
-I think I got a waiver for Critical Thinking 101, which department was it under?
"These are people who want to be American while many of us take our rights for granted (if we even know anything about our rights)."
-Yes, only you know about our rights
#21 Educated Student
on November 10, 2009 at 12:36 a.m.(None, None | Unverified Name)
To Holland
1.I completely agree with you in the part where you say "We cannot operate as a society if we do not enforce are laws", but let me ask you this. Why do you think congressmen and business owners of the agriculteral areas don't ask immigration officers to check their fields? I'll tell you why. Because just in Washington State being the #1 producer of the apples that are sold in the country by itself it makes more than 1 billion dollars A year. Are you getting the hypocritical image.
2. I also agree that people are always getting deported and that their is obously something different about Alonso's case. I'll tell you what's different. Alonso is an educated student something that not all people that are deported are. He is also someone that is willing to make a change and with a change comes a risk that he is willing to confront regardless of the circumstances. You cannot expect something to change without you changing it yourself. The reason why he has those "connections" you speak of is because he knows is a student activist something that not everyone in this country is and he is tired of hiding in the shadows. He is no longer a scared individual but a determinded one that stands proud and will make a change with just using what this country has trained him for.(his eduaction)
3. You just plain out make no sense. But I answer in what I think you might of meant to say. Well it's already hard enough to be accepted in this society for the simple fact that you might have some Latino/Hispanic heritage. This country and this society will ONLY accept educated individual that will only bring profits to this country. Heck I bet most of Alonso's supporters would want for everyone that in this country without a legal status to stay but if they know that there will always be people that will always critize individuals that are in this country illegally, imagen what they will say about someone that can even go to college. You tell me do you think that you would want to have someone that's educated or someone that's not and don't think about their status.
4. If there was such law as you say I believe he would of known by now and he would have to be in this circumstance now would he? Thats why the DREAM Act is being debated. If such law had happen their wouldn't be this whole discussion. The fact that you are talking about his degree and how he can't even tell what's north or south, I just think that no human being was made perfect and we all make accidents. I sure hope you Mr. Perfect never makes an accident or else I would call you human.
5. Who's fault do you think that is? Alonso's because he is not running that movement or the people that don't do something to change that. Look Alonso is not superman he can't do eveything. Hopefully after he stays he can take on that challenge to if you want him to, because oboulsy that's concerning you and you are not doing anything about it but run your mouth.
#22 Kuzma
on November 10, 2009 at 10:20 a.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
Look, Alonso needs to go back to his own country. We can't be making exceptions for people just because they are vocal and have connections. We have laws against illegal immigrants.
You can't just not follow a law because you disagree with it. Alonso had his chances to get legal status. He could have gotten a student visa, a work visa, or applied for asylum. I've personally known people who got legal status through these means. Alonso didn't do these things.
And now he's acting like he's the victim in this situation. You gotta go back to your own country man.
#23 Dylan
on November 10, 2009 at 10:51 a.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name)
Dear "Educated Student",
I apologize if your last post was a satire, I didn't have the willpower to read through it. Generally speaking, educated students don't identify themselves as such. Nor do they have poor grammar and writing style.
This is a very simple issue. The fact that there is even an argument is simply a result of a sob story and some suckers who don't see it for what it really is. Immigration has been refined over the years and is an important part of our society's function (for better or worse). To think this is a good idea is completely blind of the negative impact it could result in.
#24 Educated Student
on November 10, 2009 at 10:53 a.m.(None, None | Unverified Name)
Are you not understanding. He was a child when he came to this country. Like any child he does what his family tells him. And he has not applied for a resedency because thir I no legal mechanism that allows him to. You say he broke the law because he did what his parents told him. Why is it the they break the law when they come to this country to work an educate themselves but it's not breaking the law when we take our companies to their countries and have the work and explode them in. The work field plus offer no security or help and expose them to dangerous environments. We all know that nothing is free in this country so you must understand that if you want this country to function you WILL need this individuals to do what we don't want to do. Please don't tell me that you want to work for sometimes less than minimum wage in an environment that will effect your well being and still have to pay for taxes that you will not recieve back.
#25 Kuzma
on November 10, 2009 at 11:01 a.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
He had the LEGAL mechanism to get residency in the US. He didn't take it. Now he has to go back to his own country. Black and white.
#26 Educated Student
on November 10, 2009 at 11:20 a.m.(None, None | Unverified Name)
Hello THEIR IS NO LEGAL MECHANISM and if you you don't believe educate yourself that's why books where invented. For children that are brought to this contry with out their own will, their is no mechanism.
#27 Kuzma
on November 10, 2009 at 11:34 a.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name | UW Community)
Actually, you're wrong. You can either apply for a student visa (should be easy since he's a student) or a worker's visa (since he's working). Or you can apply for asylum in America. He didn't do this. I wish him good luck in Peru.
#28 Kuzma
on November 10, 2009 at 11:40 a.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name | UW Community)
By the way, I really hate when pricks tell me to educate myself. As a legal immigrant, I should know a thing or two about getting residency in America.
#29 Educated Student
on November 10, 2009 at 11:41 a.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name)
You can but when you are in your native country. And to get this visa you must be at least in the upper middle class of society so basiclly you must own a business.
#30 Kuzma
on November 10, 2009 at 11:44 a.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name | UW Community)
Once again you're wrong. I have two friends from my native country who were here illegally but applied for a student visa and asylum, respectively. They now have legal status.
#31 Kuzma
on November 10, 2009 at 11:46 a.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name | UW Community)
And they were nowhere close to being middle class, both worked at a warehouse.
#32 Russ W.
on November 10, 2009 at 3:11 p.m.(Location Unknown | UW Community)
Why NOT favor educated, skilled people in making immigration policy?
#33 Jacob 9
on November 10, 2009 at 3:44 p.m.(None, None | Unverified Name)
Is amazing how people are just so ignorant. Everyone is just so closed minded. Look outside the box for once..... If it were that easy for these people to enter the country legally like some of you make it seem, we wouldnt have this problem... Is really simple, not everyone was blessed like we were to be born in a country like this one, were you have a chance to succed in life, where you get the tools for life, you just have to learn how to use them.. Put your self in some of this peoples shoes, we all want the best for our families... If your in a situation where you see ur family suffering you will do anything for their best... These are hard working people lets be honest...when do you see them begging for money, instead you see them at 110 degree temperature selling oranges or flowers, fruit etc.... Im pro dream act and pro immigration reform.. Have them pay a fine, have them take a background check (no criminals), pay taxes etc.. But lets get these people out of these shadows
#34 Tyson Devereux
on November 10, 2009 at 7:19 p.m.(Grand Prairie, TX | Unverified Name)
Holland A- You called my comments stupid, and then you say a couple lines later that we shouldn't assume that people who disagree with us are stupid- How hypocritical is that?
To clear a few things for some people. Alonso, among several others, came to this country as a child. He did not make this choice. So stop with the comments as if he came over as an adult. He has done nothing wrong.
Second, there are no Legal Mechanisms for someone already here illegally. A friend tried to apply for a visa, and immigration came knocking.
Third, if there was anything Alonso could have done prior, he would have. You think he willingly chose to pay his full tuition, instead of receiving Financial Aid like the rest of the students. You think he chose to always know he's not a citizen, instead having the joy of freedom. You think he chose to have no say in issues that he faces, instead of having the right to vote on important issues that he faces every day.
Fourth, this is a story about Alonso, but seriously, this is a story that several people face and deal with. It is about time. This is about the Dream Act. This is about individual lives that are effected injustly. Children that have been here in this country deserve and have the right to be in the country they grew up in.
#35 Durendal55
on November 11, 2009 at 7:38 a.m.(Cologne, MN | Unverified Name)
Such Negativity! So much "the glass is half empty"! Those who support Illegal Immigration here bemoan the fact that those here illegally cannot stay longer. But deported Illegal Immigrants are not going to their deaths nor are they going to Hades. And I am sure that those countries that are the source of Illegal Immigrants in the USA appreciate being regarded as such pits of depravity that living in them is to be avoided at all costs.
But if those who complain had faith the size of a mustard seed they would know that after achieving such a precious opportunity as to spend time in the United States someone here illegally could then take that good education have a beneficial impact on their home country. Instead we are all supposed to sit down and cry a river. If those so deported learned anything here in the U.S. they will work and fight to make their future a bright one no matter where they live and at the same time uplift those around them. And if they are smart people maybe someday they will re-write history in their own countries. Or maybe they will just sit down and whine the rest of their lives.
If fate has a plan for each and every one of us, in the end it is arrogance to assume that if you do not get your way it is a bad thing. And it is arrogance to believe that only those living in America can succeed. Is this another manifestation of the ugly American syndrome? And with three Citizens and Legal Residents looking for work for every working Illegal Immigrant why is no one asking about the Citizens and Legal Residents who will continue to be destitute and out of work if this gentleman is not deported? Is this lack of compassion for those born in the USA or legally residing in the USA another manifestation of “hate Americans first”?
#36 Dylan
on November 11, 2009 at 8:24 a.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name)
"Why NOT favor educated, skilled people in making immigration policy?"
That's exactly what this article wants you to think. However, immigration policy ALREADY favors educated and skilled people. It doesn't favor irresponsible behavior. That is EXACTLY what this bill will promote. And you forget technicalities. What exactly is considered higher education? Online Universities, Community Colleges, Technical Schools? Use your head and realize this isn't about Alonso, this is about promoting illegal immigration.
Sure, you are imagining if you are Alonso. How about if you are Alonso's parents? Are you going to put your child in a position where he has to fly under the radar, be an illegal immigrant? Moral innocense does not always make legal innocence.
#37 Dylan
on November 11, 2009 at 8:26 a.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name)
"If fate has a plan for each and every one of us"
Don't press your beliefs on us. What a stupid thing to cite in a debate. When I see that sentence I know it's not worth the headache to read the rest of your response.
#38 Tyson Devereux
on November 11, 2009 at 10:52 a.m.(Dallas, TX | Unverified Name)
Seriously Durendal- go talk to the Jews of the Holocaust about fate. Tell them they are being ignorant because they are not getting their way. Go talk to our forefathers who fought for our freedom. go tell them to stop whining about their oppressions. Seriously
#39 Durendal55
on November 11, 2009 at 12:04 p.m.(Cologne, MN | Unverified Name)
Tyson & Dylan - and just what beliefs do you think are espoused by the use of the word "fate"? Those who cannot refute a principle always resort to hyperbola or spurious attacks on the speaker. Chinese Proverb - He who strikes the first blow admits he's lost the argument.
#40 Durendal55
on November 11, 2009 at 12:23 p.m.(Cologne, MN | Unverified Name)
Those who support Illegal Immigration here apparently have no clue why we control immigration. Five times between 1850 and 1914 large waves of immigrants came to the USA. And each wave resulted in high unemployment and economic recession. Unemployment of 30% in California resulted in the ridiculous Chinese Exclusion Act. Ellis Island was opened against a backdrop of unemployment that exceeded 50% in the states of Maine, Kansas, and Michigan. Unemployment reached 32% for unskilled labor in 1910 thanks to uncontrolled immigration. By comparison unemployment peaked at only 25% in the Great Depression.
That is why we now control immigration. Since that control began we have not had a single immigration driven economic recession. Until now that is. Even at the lowest level of unemployment this decade we had 12 million mostly low income Americans looking for jobs, 20% youth unemployment, and growth in the number of workers at below poverty level wages, all courtesy of a labor oversupply of 7 million working Illegal Immigrants. And today we have over 21 million Americans looking for work while 7 million Illegal Immgrants work thanks to the latest wave of uncontrolled immigration. And it is getting worse.
Once you leave college you are introduced to the big bad world that does not behave in the way you want it too. It behaves the way it wants too. And one of those really unforgiving ways in which the world works is the no-win economic trade-off that says jobs available are a function of available capital. If you increase population without increasing capital the new arrivals just wind up in the unemployment line. Or they work and cause Citizens to wind up in the unemployment line. No amount of wishful thinking can change this. So it comes down to this simple no-win scenario. If too many immigrants come to the USA too fast who gets to suffer the consequences? The Citizen? Or those who entered the USA illegally in excess of our reasonably established limits?
#41 Tyson Devereux
on November 11, 2009 at 1:43 p.m.(Grand Prairie, TX | Unverified Name)
Wow, you missed the mark again Durendal. I believe I made a comment previously, in which you responded to. So who is striking the first blow? Wow, you can't even refrain from being hypocritical, even to your own proverb.
Among all this discussion, can anyone answer this one question. What crime did Alonso commit?
And don't go off on how he is here illegaly, because he came as a child. So, answer the question. What crime did Alonso commit?
#42 Dylan
on November 11, 2009 at 1:52 p.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name | UW Community)
Alonso moved here and is living here without obtaining citizenship, that is illegal. Like I said, moral innocence and legal innocence are two different things. There is a reason the law is in place. It's not to catch people like Alonso, but exceptions cannot be made (and adjustments are even more out of the question).
#43 Tyson Devereux
on November 11, 2009 at 2:17 p.m.(Grand Prairie, TX | Unverified Name)
I understand what your saying Dylan, but that still doesn't answer my question. What did Alonso DO?
If the law states that it's okay for the government to oppose on his rights, then that law is unconstitutional, and needs to be changed. Legal doesn't = right.
Seriously, what crime has Alonso Committed?
#44 Dylan
on November 11, 2009 at 3:13 p.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name | UW Community)
Apparently you don't understand, because you are still asking what he did. In today's society we have laws that are created via democracy and there is a strict procedure one must follow to enter and reside in a country that is not their country of origin. Alonso did not follow that protocol. Not following this protocol has been deemed illegal by our laws formed through democracy. I don't see how the government is opposing on his rights... he doesn't have many rights as an illegal immigrant.
Being a minor does not grant you pardon.
The laws are probably the same in the country Alonso has moved here from.
It's actually a really simple concept.
#45 Tyson Devereux
on November 11, 2009 at 4:19 p.m.(Grand Prairie, TX | Unverified Name)
So one can be taken for Doing nothing, ok.
You want to discuss Laws and favoritism, if a Cuban comes over and touches American soil, that person is allowed to stay in the United States. So don't give me that "exceptions can't be made" when the United States has already made them. We are not looking for "exceptions", we are looking for "justice" from an incorrupt and unfair system.
No one has still answered my question, so obviously I still have to ask it. Alonso did not chose to disregard protocol. He came here with his family as a child. It was not his choice. It's like someone stealing a pack of cookies, and giving one to a child. Who is at fault?
So I ask again, What is Alonso's crime?
#46 Durendal55
on November 11, 2009 at 4:28 p.m.(Cologne, MN | Unverified Name)
Tyson - your ignorance of the laws of the USA is startling. There are two different laws that govern Illegal presence in the United States. They are:
1. Illegally crossing a border to enter the United States. This is called "Illegal Entry" and is punishable by up to six months in prison and/or a monetary fine followed by deportation. This is the highest penalty a Misdemeanor PENALTY can achieve before it crosses the line to be called a Criminal PENALTY. This is a violation of Criminal LAW and is prosecuted in Criminal COURT like any other Criminal LAW violation. Notable examples of this kind of law violation include dumping untreated toxic waste wherever you please and shooting endangered species.
2. Overstaying a Visa results in a violation of the law called "Illegal Presence" in the United States. This is a violation of Civil LAW and is subject the Civil PENALTY of deportation. As such, cases of this type are handled in Administrative Immigration Courts they are not comparable to any other violation of any other body of law with possible exception of Tax Law. Just as in Immigration Law there is a separate court system to handle infractions of the law and violations are termed Civil in nature. It is called Civil Law for no other reason than because the penalties involve no jail time. And the closest comparison to this type of law violation is Tax Cheat or someone who files no tax return (they did nothing too).
Anyone who crosses the U.S. Border Illegally whether adult or child is very lucky if they are only charged with Illegal Presence. If the Authorities choose Illegal Presence when the person is in fact engaging in Illegal Entry it is only to save time, money, and jail space.
#47 Dylan
on November 11, 2009 at 4:30 p.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name | UW Community)
He didn't pay his taxes. Or is that not a crime either?
#48 Tyson Devereux
on November 11, 2009 at 8:59 p.m.(Grand Prairie, TX | Unverified Name)
Durandel- I have already disregarded your useless comments
He didn't pay his taxes? Where did you read that?
Obviously no one can answer my question, especially when you gotta start making up convictions.
#49 Hopeful
on November 11, 2009 at 10:16 p.m.(None, None | Unverified Name)
I'm appalled by the level of ignorance in this board, considering that many of us here are UW educated. To clear up some misconceptions, I am fairly certain this young man and his family pay/paid taxes. Have none of you heard of an "ITIN"? Probably not. Do a quick google search and then come back and argue.
Secondly, there is absolutely NO PATHWAY TO CITIZENSHIP FOR PEOPLE IN ALONSO'S SITUATION, I don't know how to make that more clear than it already is. Although I don't know him, many people in his situation come from extremely poor families. The international students we have in UW come from fairly wealthy families who can afford to pay out of state/country tuition. A modest Peruvian family can simply not afford it. Neither can they afford to pay to come here. When you immigrate you have to have some sort of connection to this country, either by family ties or by job offerings, and not everyone has access to this. Why is that so hard to understand?
Thirdly, Alonso could not have come as a refugee because "unfortunately" Peru is not a country at war or a country suffering from extreme violence. But as someone who has traveled to South America, I have personally witnessed the state of poverty in which many people live, so it doesn't surprise me people want to get out by any means possible. Have any of you "anti-illegals" traveled to another country? I've found that the most close minded individuals are the most uncultured. It does the soul some good to see the substandard conditions in other countries to get some perspective as to why some people risk their lives to come to the United States.
Lastly, I would like you to think about the following. Who is really taking our jobs? Is it the illegal immigrant working in construction, or the Indian citizen and resident who answers my calls when I need technical support? Seriously, more and more companies are laying off professionals and hiring individuals in other countries because it's MUCH cheaper. I feel like much of the blame is erroneously placed on Hispanics and other illegals when it should be on companies that outsource. Really, the level of shamelessness at the corporate level is disgusting --- doesn't that bother you one bit?
I DON'T agree with the current immigration laws (they're too lenient in my opinion) - however I don't blame the innocent people who risk everything for a chance to come here. I blame the government and their lack of response in addressing this issue. I hope they will fix something as soon as possible, but it isn't up to me to judge anyone. I'm saddened by the hate some people ignorantly spew on boards like this.
Alonso, if you're reading this, please continue fighting! There are many of us praying and rooting for you and other people in your situation. Remember that justice eventually comes...even if it takes a while.
#50 Durendal55
on November 12, 2009 at 6:42 a.m.(Cologne, MN | Unverified Name)
Hopeful - they tried out-sourcing construction jobs but the buildings kept falling apart and sinking into the ocean during the shipping process. They tried outsourcing material movement jobs, but darn it, the product kept winding up in places like India and China. And they tried outsourcing harvesting but people's arms were not long enought to reach over the border to harvest and can crops. Seriously, I find it hard to believe that someone with a UW education can actually believe that outsourcing is he root of all unemployment. Especially since it is impossible to outsource those jobs that are most effected by illegal immigration and which have some of the highest unemployment rates.
#51 Dylan
on November 12, 2009 at 7:58 a.m.(Seattle, WA | Unverified Name | UW Community)
Yup, looked up ITIN and that certainly does not convince me that illegal immigrants pay income tax. They CAN pay taxes, but if an employer is hiring an illegal immigrant, do you really think that's not going to be dealt with under the table? That was a fringe argument for Tyson, anyway, because he didn't understand immigration law.
#52 Kuzma
on November 12, 2009 at 10:28 a.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name)
I know a lot of people really want to believe that there is no path to residency for people in Alonso's situation. But it's simply not true. I've already posted a couple of comments about this, but it seems to be falling on deaf ears. Believe what you want, but the truth is that he could have done something to get residency and he still can.
#53 Hopeful
on November 12, 2009 at 11:14 a.m.(None, None | Unverified Name | UW Community)
Kuzma, how does a Canadian illegal get asylum? How does an illegal student become an international student while being illegally in the United States? By the current law that's simply not possible. A person in that situation has to first leave the country and will then face a ten year ban before he can come back to the United States. Since you know so much about the legal process, can you enlighten me?
And Durendal, do you really not see a problem when companies like Microsoft continue to fire workers while keeping their Indian workers? Because they can hire 3 Indians at the cost of one American? Someone I know who works for Intel now has conference meetings at 1 or 2am to accommodate the Indian workers he manages. What about the many professionals who not only get fired, but who also have to TRAIN THEIR OWN FOREIGN replacements through the H-1B visa program? There's nothing wrong with that? Outsourcing and H-1Bs are hurting a large part of our population and a lot of people don't seem to notice or care.
Either way, way to go Alonso! Congrats on getting 50 more days!
#54 Kuzma
on November 12, 2009 at 11:26 a.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name | UW Community)
You apply for an F student visa or an H1B worker's visa. Or you can apply for asylum in America. Seriously, I've known people that have taken these routes. It's totally possible.
Stop treating this guy like he's a victim. He needs to respect the laws of the country he's in. I hope he gets his ass deported.
#55 Tyson Devereux
on November 12, 2009 at 11:41 a.m.(Grand Prairie, TX | Unverified Name)
I don't understand immigration law? I'm in the midst of immigration law. Immigration is surrounding every aspect of my life. You talk about Law, but i live the law, and they are two different manifestations. I see what really happens.
Alonso went to school. You need a social to go to school. If you have a social, then you pay taxes when you have a job. Unless he was working under the table yes, but the article never said anything of the sort. So stop convicting him of something he didn't do.
You can't tell me one thing he did wrong?
#56 Durendal55
on November 12, 2009 at 12:35 p.m.(Cologne, MN | Unverified Name)
Hopeful - According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Unemployment Report released on November 6, 2009:
Farming, fishing, and forestry occupations – Unemployment Rate = 13.3%
Construction and extraction occupations – Unemployment Rate = 19.1%
Production occupations – Unemployment Rate = 14.5%
Transportation, material moving occupations – Unemployment Rate = 11.6%
Service occupations – Unemployment Rate = 10.0%
Total Unemployed Citizens and Legal Residents of the USA = 15,700,000
In Addition, Persons who currently want a job but are not included in the unemployment figures because they have not looked for a job in the last month = 5,995,000
Therefore, Total Number of Americans Looking For Work = 21,695,000
Pew Study estimate of the number of Illegal Immigrants working in the USA = 7,500,000
The majority of whom work in agriculture, office and house cleaning, construction, and food preparation.
Meanwhile:
Management, professional, and related occupations – Unemployment Rate = 4.7%
H1B and the outsourcing you mention primarily effects the Management, professional, and related occupations. If outsourcing is such a disaster how come the unemployment rate in that area is so low? And in 2007 the Management, professional, and related occupations unemployment rate was only 2.1%. Meanwhile unemployment rates for occupations that cannot be outsourced are through the roof. Outsourcing is just a straw dog put up by those who want to take the spotlight off of Illegal Immigration.
#57 Durendal55
on November 12, 2009 at 3:40 p.m.(Cologne, MN | Unverified Name)
Don't miss-interpret me people. I think this is a very sad story that begs for a happy ending. But with 11 million people currently residing illegally in the USA, doing everything they can to bend the law to their favor in order to escape the consequences of their illegal actions, it is not hard to understand why Immigration Bureaucrats can no longer afford compassion. Human nature being what it is, the more people make this a cause celeb for immigration reform the less likely it will be that this story can have a happy ending. It is only one sob story among many and sooner or later, the patience of even the saintliest wears thin.
In the old days a quiet word to a luminary such as Warren G. Magnusson could save the day. Or a back office immigration judge could interject some compassion. But in today's era of mass law breaking compassion becomes a sign of weakness that millions jump on and try to take advantage of. And like it or not, no good deed goes un-punished.
#58 jdm
on November 18, 2009 at 9:25 a.m.(Location Unknown | Unverified Name | UW Community)
Alonso, mucha suerte. Espero que todo resulte bien. Un abrazo y, no se te olvide, que muchos estamos detras tuyo, apoyandote.
#59 will
on November 18, 2009 at 8:41 p.m.(UW Campus | Unverified Name | UW Community)
If he's too stupid(or illiterate) to realize he's driving to Canada and not Seattle, he doesn't deserve to be in this country. Clearly anyone with half a brain would see the signs(Perhaps he can't read English) that say he is headed north. It is over 20 miles to Canada from Bellingham people, there's no excuse for this. And by the way, are we a nation that upholds its laws or not? Do you have any idea about the costs associated with illegal immigration?
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