"Good" versus "Bad" Immigrants

Immigration policy in America follows a narrative that categorizes who deserves to be in the U.S. and who does not. It's the old "good guys vs. bad guys" story. But we all have loved ones with at least one criminal conviction on their records. Does this make them "bad?" Of course not - the very idea that one cannot redeem him or herself, seek rehabilitation, and become better - well, it is just un-American.

Immigrant advocates' delicate ears have always discerned what this outstanding podcast episode from NPR's code switch explains so well - the boiled down good vs. evil storyline really oversimplifies who immigrants are and what U.S. immigration policy should be.

This podcast episode will make you think:

- Why are "Dreamers," or immigrants who came as children considered to be so desirable?

- Why do we deport with no questions a man who has a U.S. Citizen family, but a 20 year old felony conviction?

- What if that man has done his time and paid for his crime and had no trouble since?

- Why do we feel that we must lock people up and throw them across the border in order to remain safe?

This is an excellent listen. The folks at code switch are thoughtful and well-researched on this one.