Immigrants have transformed America into the country it is today. Some were fleeing persecution in their own countries. Immigrants arrived as free individuals, indentured servants, or slaves. Most came here to seek a better life. America has welcomed these individuals and has a process in place for those who wish to obtain legal citizenship. The issue of immigration is a hot topic in the United States today and concerns people who enter the country illegally. Our representatives are proposing new laws to limit access to our country by other than legal means. There are strong feelings on both sides. Opponents of “illegal” immigration believe the cost to Americans is too high. According to this group, the “undocumented” are jeopardizing the jobs of our own citizens, who pay no taxes. We are incurring exorbitant medical and educational costs for this group of approximately eleven million people (Pros/Cons). Their concerns are legitimate, and it is unfair to burden Americans with higher taxes to share the cost of medical and educational expenses for people who work here and don't pay taxes. There is also a risk to the security of our nation. Without background checks and information about who resides in our country, there are fears we could be more vulnerable to another terrorist attack. Members of this group believe we can discourage entry by increasing patrols and surveillance and raising a wall to protect our south. border. Immigrants who have entered the country legally believe that it is unfair to grant citizenship to illegal immigrants. Those who entered legally followed our established process to become citizens. They came here, took the required tests, did background checks,...... middle of paper... effective deterrent. As long as there is a need and a family suffers, there will always be someone willing to take the risks associated with illegal entry. These individuals are having a positive impact on our way of life. Our government and its citizens should recognize both their contributions and their sacrifices. Our current policies and laws are not working, and we should look for a means to streamline the process while addressing the associated costs and safety concerns. References Bandow, Doug. “Immigration benefits the United States, so let's legalize all work.” Forbes.com. September 16, 2013. Web. March 21, 2014. Cooper, Marc. "Exodus." Perspectives on argumentation. Seventh edition. Pearson. 595—597Forbes.com. Finger, Richard. “Is the rule of law dead? Should we reward illegal immigrants with a path to citizenship? Forbes.com. July 23, 2013. Web. March 21 2014.