I would like to propose complete reformation of immigration and naturalization. Many Americans are aware of the situation at the Southern Border. While it may be true that some of these individuals could pose a threat to citizens, some come here for a better life than what is offered to them.
The most common excuse for this is “They should follow proper protocols in order to become a citizen.” As they stand now, it’s very difficult for immigrants to become naturalized through the proper channels.
These immigrants have to stay within the United States for a certain amount of years before being considered for naturalization. The individuals that want a better life, have to find a job. And work visas only last so long. It’s commonly estimated, that the total process from learning to read and write English to taking history classes cost the average immigrant somewhere in the neighborhood of $10,000. That’s a lot of money for even the average working and middle class American.
Here is my personal ideas on how this could be restructured.
- Allow immigrants to test in their own language.
- Question on this test should be easier, but still encompass what America’s values are. Many of our own citizens can’t even pass a Naturalization Test.
- Immigrants should be vetted for any prior aggressive behaviors or arrests. Things that are considered infractions, such as traffic violations should be omitted.
- Reduce the required number of years required as a resident to 1 year. During this year they could be granted amnesty.
These are just a few ideas. However, the point is that it should be easier. The basic idea is make harder to enter through the borders but easier to gain citizenship. Many Americans do not realize that immigrants contribute greatly to our economy. Any immigrant that actively contributes to the economy, should be given the chance to become a citizen.
People make the point that they are coming here and stealing our jobs. Well to this I say, if they were citizens or could obtain citizenship easier they wouldn’t be stealing any jobs. It would simply be a competitive market.
I know many people may not agree with this, but there are many immigrants that work hard to be here, and should be given that chance, an easier chance, to be a citizen.