Use the Ellis Island model
We have heard Donald Trump talk about building a wall on the border with Mexico. A hundred years ago, millions of people entered the United States through Ellis Island and Angel Island. The government was able to process people without computers and the new immigrants were able to make new lives in the United States. With them came foods, music and so much that has added to the culture of the country.
Why can’t we create entry points along the border that are like Ellis Island? People could catch a bus to the centers, fill out forms, find housing and jobs, and get identity cards. They could leave the centers ready for a new life and wouldn’t be considered “illegal.” Lives would be saved because they wouldn’t be crossing the deserts and children would be protected.
I really have a hard time understanding why this isn’t done or hasn’t been thought of recently. It is a humane reasonable solution for all involved. Maybe it is just too much of a logical idea that could actually work.
Judith Patton, Hanford
This story was originally published March 23, 2016 at 7:39 AM with the headline "Use the Ellis Island model."