IMMIGRATION MATTERS
A Column by Kimberley A. Chandler, Immigration Attorney
January, 2010
BEHIND THE WORDS
Widespread
misunderstanding and misuse of immigration
lingo makes intelligent debate of
the immigration issue challenging. For example,
the word “immigrant” is used incorrectly by many
to describe anyone present in the United States
who hails from another country. It carries negative
connotations, too: many people blame our country's
woes – crime, poverty, high unemployment, etc.
on immigrants.
The
dictionary definition of “immigrant” is
much narrower and suggests relatively honorable
conduct. Dictionary.com defines an immigrant
as “a person who migrates to another country,
usually for permanent residence.” Since migration,
in today's world, requires compliance with intricate
laws and regulations, immigrants are persons
who, by definition, have complied with the immigration
law.
Who,
then, are the “illegal immigrants” that
everyone loves to hate? I suppose that term refers
to persons who enter the United States without
authorization or stay beyond the date by which
they are to leave. They really are not immigrants
at all but immigration violators and are more
accurately referred to as illegal or undocumented “aliens.” The
term “alien,” in the immigration law and Dictionary.com
means non-citizens.
Another
term useful to the immigration discussion is “non-immigrant,” which
is an alien who enters the United States with
the intention of staying temporarily. Non-immigrants
include visitors, foreign students and temporary
workers.
In 2010, it is likely that Congress will consider
major changes to our immigration laws. There
are two sides to the immigration coin. Changes
to our immigration system that make it easier
for talented, law-abiding persons to immigrate
to the United States or to enter as non-immigrants
for a limited period of time are as important
to the welfare of our country as are changes
that deter abuse of our immigration laws.
As the immigration debates heat up, we need
to be mindful of generalizations and terminology
which may be not only inaccurate but also a smokescreen
intended to confuse the facts and conceal prejudice
toward non-citizens.
This article should not be relied upon as
legal advice. Consult an immigration attorney
for advice specific to your situation.
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