Sitting on the Border Fence

Nearly every American is aware of the controversy surrounding border crossing from Mexico into the United States. The most commonly discussed solution is in building a fence which would physically isolate the United States from Mexico. A full spectrum of opinions toward this solution exist, from considering the very notion as un-American as it gets to it being the most pressing matter in protecting against terrorism, drug importation, and economic decay. Regardless of what side someone is on, the effect it has on American culture must be addressed.

Opposition toward building the border fence feel that it will upset the agricultural industry of the region and dissolve the easy access to free trade and work in the area. One regional politician Raul Salinas, the mayor of Lerado Texas, believes that the wall is a terrible idea. Likewise, he feels that the rest of the country should pay attention to the wishes of Americans that live in the area. His sentiment rings true with the town, who voted unanimously against building the fence, which could be summed up by his statement: “I think when you build a wall, it’s a wall of shame.”

Proponents of building the fence believe that it will first and foremost alleviate the strains that illegal immigration on American businesses and industry. Illegal immigrants utilize and abuse social services and health care meant for citizens. Furthermore, as is American standard not to deny emergency services to anyone, illegal immigrants are able to reap the benefits of the country without having to pay into it via taxation. The costs of the fence itself, in this sense, would be offset by the potential reduction in costs associated with services provided and taxation gains. On either side of the fence, both literally and figuratively, the issues are deep rooted and complex.

No simple solution is available and with the current economic burden Americans are facing the problem only seems to be getting worse; either the situation is seen as a scapegoat for other, bigger issues or it as seen as a fundamental component of those larger issues. Regardless of which side is “right,” the only possible resolution may have to wait until the country as a whole is capable of dealing with issues abroad and after strengthening the economy. Until then, the struggles will only set the stage for the eventual solution.

Sources: NPR.org; Valley Morning Star; Minuteman Project

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