I very much appreciate the gentleman from Texas comments about the immigration problem. Listening to his discussion. it makes me realize that this is a good example of the kind of issue where. although a domestic issue in the United States. as we strive to control our own borders and enact appropriate immigration legislation. but that this is the kind of issue where we need to consider its impact on our neighbors. Too often I think that has characterized the relationship between the United States and Mexico. where we have taken an action on one side without considering its impact on the other side. As one gentleman told us earlier today. our relationship has been one of surprises. each nation having pulled surprises on the other. In this case I suppose our consideration of the immigration legislation is not a surprise but certainly whatever we do with that legislation will have an enormous impact on Mexico. I think what this tells us is that we have to understand that underlying fundamentally the problem between the United States and Mexico on immigration is the labor issue. It is one of an economic differential. there are no two countries in the world who share a common border which have as great an economic differential as do the United States. and Mexico. When you consider that. you begin to realize that trying to stem the tide of illegal immigration from Mexico. is kind of like putting your hand up against a waterfall. those people who are coming here are coming because they want a better life for themselves. for their children ultimately. What we can do best. it seems to me. in the long run about immigration and the problems we have with immigration is to help Mexico develop in such a way that it will provide jobs for this generation and for future generations within Mexico.
Identified stereotypes
Generalization that people are coming to the US for a better life for themselves and their children.