Mr. Speaker. H.R. 1510. the SimpsonMazzoli bill. represents for the most part. a fair and responsible approach to immigration reform. The legalizations provision. in particular. are an important step forward in bringing undocumented aliens out of their shadowy. frightened existence. I am troubled. however. by the potential discriminatory impact of the employer sanctions provision in this bill. Without an appropriate civil rights remedy. discrimination in hiring will go unchecked for Hispanics. West Indians. and others who "appear" foreign. Mr. Speaker. 40 percent of my congressional district is Hispanic and many Caribbean blacks also live in the area. The employer sanctions provision. of this bill. has severe limitations for persons of color in this society. like my constituents.
Identified stereotypes
Hispanics and West Indians are perceived as 'foreign' and may face discrimination.