Thread: San Diego area residents will join May boycott, risk jobs

http://nctimes.com/articles/2006/04/..._314_14_06.txt


Local residents say they'll join May boycott

By: BRENDA DURAN - Staff Writer

NORTH COUNTY ---- They have marched by the thousands, written letters to Congress, and walked out of school, all in an effort to stop lawmakers from passing any immigration law that would make felons of more than 11 million undocumented immigrants.

So, what's next?

"El Gran Paro," or "The Big Stop," on May 1, a Monday, according to protest organizers and immigration rights groups. The planned nationwide boycott is apparently aimed at encouraging those who oppose current proposed immigration laws to stay home from work or school and to refrain from buying any goods.


At last Sunday's so-called March for Dignity, Respect and Hope in Balboa Park that drew an estimated 50,000 protesters, organizers passed out fliers stamped with the words, "The May 1st Stop," urging people to get gasoline, food and other supplies by April 30th.

The buzz has already begun to spread throughout North County, where an estimated 4,000 residents took part in Sunday's demonstration.

San Marcos resident and activist Arnoldo Marin said he expects thousands of North County residents to turn out again for the May event.

"There are millions who have been ignored," Marin said in Spanish. "It's time everyone realize immigrants are an important part of this country and deserve rights. This is a good way of proving it."

The proposed federal legislation that kicked off protests around the country, HR 4437, would have made it a felony to be in the country illegally and would also criminalize those who help illegal immigrants.

The Senate Judiciary Committee has approved a less rigid version of the bill. Recent amendments include omitting the criminalization of those who help illegal immigrants and allowing those immigrants who have been in the United States for more than six years to be eligible for permanent residency and to be able to continue working once they pay fines.

The bill has stalled.

The national boycott is intended to bring even more attention to the immigration debate, said Enrique Morones, one of the main organizers of the Balboa Park march.

"One thing that always catches people's attention is their pocketbooks," said Morones. "This is a way we know we can bring attention to the rights we are asking for."

Morones said that protest organizers from San Diego, South Bay, East County and North County have been taking part in teleconferences all week with nationwide organizations to plan for the May 1 events, including marches and parades.

In North County, various plans have already been discussed.

In Vista, Tina Jillings, co-founder of the Coalition for Peace, Justice and Dignity, held a meeting Thursday to plan a march that will coincide with the boycott.

However, others such as San Marcos resident Ray Lopez are taking a different approach to the boycott. Lopez said some San Marcos residents are planning to meet with San Marcos Unified School District Superintendent Ed Brand and city officials in upcoming weeks to discuss the impact the boycott could have on schools and the city.

"At this point, we just want to avoid another student walkout," Lopez said.

Advance reaction from businesses has been mixed.

The national chain, Souplantation & Sweet Tomatoes Inc., issued a statement this week to employees, saying they risked losing their jobs if they boycott work on May 1, and urged workers to find other ways to express their opinions.

Morones said boycott organizers are also telling residents who are reluctant to miss work that they could participate by refraining from buying things, by registering to vote, or asking to work a half-shift that day.

Escondido resident Joel Medina, a maintenance supervisor at Seven Oaks, a community in Rancho Bernardo, said he has already begun encouraging his five-member crew to take to the street on May 1, and asked them to call their family and friends to join in.

"I worry about being fired," Medina said. "I worry about being disciplined. But it's okay."

Born in Mexico to a mother with American citizenship, Medina said he illegally crossed the border at the age of 12, and didn't apply for citizenship until the amnesty program of 1987. His experience, he said, gives him an understanding of what so many migrant families are going through, and he said he hopes any immigration reform will include a path to some form of legal status for them here.

"If we don't do something, the families are going to suffer," he said, adding that eliminating job opportunities for immigrants won't drive them back to their country of origin. "Being poor here, or being poor in Mexico, which do you think they'd prefer?"

Beyond asking his workers to march, Medina has also shelled out $475 to print 10 dozen T-shirts for the event. The shirts read "Friends not enemies" in English and Spanish, and feature two hands shaking, one wrapped in an American flag, the other a blend of flags from around the world ---- Mexico, Canada, France and Britain.

Staff writer David Fried contributed to this report. Contact staff writer Brenda Duran at (760) 761-4408 or bduran@nctimes.com.

Comments On This Story

Note: Comments reflect the views of readers and not necessarily those of the North County Times or its staff.
bryan wrote on April 14, 2006 10:08 PM:"I think all the legal workers in the san diego should boycott mexico. Dont go to mexico, dont buy any products that are made in mexico. Dont buy mexican food. "

billybob wrote on April 14, 2006 10:13 PM:"If the illegal aliens want to boycott something why dont they boycott the free health care they get, why dont they botcott the free schooling they and their kids get, dont be calling the police or fire dept boycott them too. Dont be driving on the highways during your boycott also. Dont go and spend any of the food stamps that my government has given you during your boycott. "

DAE wrote on April 14, 2006 10:25 PM:"These illegal aliens have to go back to Mexico and turn back around and get in line for the proper papalas. Then once they become American citizens they will have rights to pay for school,healthcare,taxes for the cost of people that are illegal and run from law enforcement at a high speed in vans that crash and injure or kill 10-20 people. Taxes pay for our police and emt's and insurance Co. pay for damages. That is right and fair. Don't you THINK?"

alan wrote on April 14, 2006 10:47 PM:"This illegal immigration issues is not going away anytime soon. I feel that this is going to lead to violence or riots in our cities. I am stocking up on supplies and purchasing aditional guns for protecting my family."

de wrote on April 14, 2006 10:54 PM:"The illegal aliens (that's what they are) contribute a lot to this great and beautiful nation that my father fought in three wars to secure the citizens saftey and freedom to obey the laws of the land. Their contributions is in the increased amount of trash we see on the road ways,gang activity and killings and also the 29% we have residing in our prisons. And I could go on etc...."

facts wrote on April 14, 2006 10:55 PM:"Illegal immigrants cost california's taxpayers $10.5 billion a year for educationn, medical care and incarceration. This amounts to $1183 per household headed by a native born resident. "

jackson wrote on April 14, 2006 11:20 PM:"May 5 and June 30 have been selected as the days for 1 day "strikes", where American Citizens will transact no commerce: Remain home from work, using vacation, leave, sick time or whatever is available to you. Take no public transportation. Transact no business. Make no purchases. Consider turning off your TV, radio and computers. For one day, make no contribution to the economy of the nation. For one day focus on the home, family, books etc. "

Cassandra wrote on April 14, 2006 11:35 PM:"de you are hysterical!!!"

cynthia wrote on April 14, 2006 11:40 PM:"search web for "boycott mexico""

......... wrote on April 14, 2006 11:41 PM:"i think all this people should not boycott why?? they want to prove that they're needed in this country.. maybe they are but who ask them to come?? they came by themselves i dont think president Bush sent them a letter asking them to come...they complain of low pay but what they earn here in one hour they earn it on their country on the whole day..they also cost taxpayers lots of money and most of them dont even pay taxes they live with the money that we taxpayers pay to the government.. eventhough i have mexican background im against this boycott thing.."

tony wrote on April 14, 2006 11:50 PM:"calling an illegal alien an undocumented immigrant is like calling a burglar an uninvited house guest."

What a Joke wrote on April 15, 2006 1:01 AM:"I don't claim to be an economist but according to this article, the money will be spent before May 1st. They're not planning to do without; they're just stocking up early. They should do this every month! If they intend to prove something they need to find smarter activists."

Chris wrote on April 15, 2006 1:12 AM:"Follow the Big Stop with the Big Lockout. Lock them out of school and work for a week. They do not value what they are already receiving from us."

Retired Sheriff wrote on April 15, 2006 2:18 AM:"Good! Now I can enjoy my day on May 1st by going to the store and not have to deal with a woman and her 11 screaming kids. "

Ray wrote on April 15, 2006 2:22 AM:"Let them boycott and leave work again. All that will happen is they will get fired and whine more. Besides the last marches lowered the crime rate last week, a good thing."

Pittsburgh wrote on April 15, 2006 2:50 AM:"How are citizens that aid illegals not being punished as accessories to crime? Everyone better get on your kids and tell them to start looking for jobs because if this immigration issue is to be won by legal citizens that are tired of handing out freebies, we need to show these illegals that we do not need them. They undermine our laws, they undermine our tax system, and they undermine the right of citizens to be able to work for a reasonable rate. Canada has free healthcare. They can go there."

Heather wrote on April 15, 2006 6:28 AM:"Why don't they want to HONOR America and hold the USA flag , It makes no sense that they want to burn our flag but still live in the Land Of The Free. Go back to Mexico if you want to do that. The only people this is hurting our the young KIDS.. That is who they should be thinking about."

JR wrote on April 15, 2006 6:50 AM:"It's honest to all the other immigrants and Americans that applied and were approved for legal entry to deport illegals and have them apply the honest way like they did. Otherwise, they're starting their experience with a sin. Look what happened to Europe."

To Tony wrote on April 15, 2006 6:57 AM:"That statement is as true today as it was yesterday when I read it at the end of a well written editorial by Victor Chabala. Not to take away from the sentiment, but we are going to need original thought to solve this problem. Instead of plagiarizing at least have the courtesy to cite your source."

Gene wrote on April 15, 2006 7:52 AM:"I am a Catholc who is very upset with the support of the Catholic Church. The bible teache us that Jesus said you should support the laws of the land, and give Ceasar what is Ceasar. (taxes) I believe in feeding the poor and the homeless, but no where in the bible does it state that I can find, is that you should condone criminals. Breaking the law is breaking the law. If we went to Mexico who has a very strict law and guards it borders on the south. They do not pratice what they want the US to do. I have been robbed 3 time and all 3 times it was illegals from Mexico. So don't tell me that they are law abiding. Look at the wall and buiding that have gang graffiti. Send them home to apply the legal way like my great great grandparents did from England & Ireland. Why should we reward them for breaking the LAW Most illegals who stand on street corners are paid at least $10.00 and lunch. They paid no taxes, no insurance. My son makes 15.00 per hour, after taxex he makes less then $10.00. Plus the illegal's family is more then likely on welfare and has free medical care. WHO IS KIDDING WHO They are beeding us dry. Pre. Fox is laughing in our face. Down with NAFTA"

tony - The first illegals wrote on April 15, 2006 8:21 AM:"were the jews who stole Palistinian land and formed a country. That is the entire problem in a nutshell. Muslims will not permit israel to exist on their land. Period. Wake up. Bombing will only cause more Americans to die."

to Medina who said this: wrote on April 15, 2006 8:28 AM:""If we don't do something, the families are going to suffer," he said, adding that eliminating job opportunities for immigrants won't drive them back to their country of origin. "Being poor here, or being poor in Mexico, which do you think they'd prefer?" So does that mean that I can go to Mexico and be filthy dirty rich there??? NO??? The Mexican government won't let me??? That's what I thought... "

frank wrote on April 15, 2006 8:30 AM:"Iam an american citizen from mexican desent.i served in vietnam usmc.i am republican pay taxes vote work 3 jobs.when people say send all mexicans back to mexico their saying frank.that is saying to me their racist towards me and hard working law abiding citizens.oh by the way i volenteered.the problem with immagration is our elected officals.we need to secure our borders. our enemy is watching write your congressand call we must secure our borders now today.i love my country and our flag i gave my life for the great usa.i served honorably.god bless the usa."

Hal wrote on April 15, 2006 8:37 AM:"All of the illegals won't walk out. They don't have any recourse if fired. The scum La Raza and MEcha the brown barret hats are running this. They don't care about the deseases and possible criminals that come accross unchecked. Do the 11+ Million so called "just want to work crowd" include the 23% illegals in jail, gangbangers etc? These groups don't show for work on to work on Monday May 1st because it is SOCIALIST DAY! They are the "My bodies for hire" people for the Soros and Moveon. Why don't you see them down in their real country Mexico fighting against Fox and gang? Because they are chicken littles. We are heading for a civil war and I just want to know what side people are going to be on. Will they fight for the country here that has given them free stuff or "Viva Mexico" and that flag? "

RWC wrote on April 15, 2006 8:52 AM:"The new law does not make these illegal immigrants criminals. They already are! Legal immigrants have rights, criminals do not. If illegal immigrants have rights, why become a legal citizen? These demonstrations are not promoting freedom. There is no freedom without law, only chaos. If these people really cared about their future, they would learn English, take US history and government classes, and become legal citizens. That is what every other nationality has done. Why do Mexicans believe they are special and deserve an exception to the past practice and laws of our nation?"

Straycat wrote on April 15, 2006 8:56 AM:"All Americans, legal workers/persons should go out and buy,buy,buy on the day of the illegal alien boycott. What don't the illegal aliens understand, they are here ILLEGALY!!! Against our law, they are criminals!!!!!!!!!!"

Peg wrote on April 15, 2006 9:06 AM:"The source of all these problems lies at the feet of the corrupt Mexican government. People would not be leaving Mexico in droves if Mexico was properly providing for its own people and giving all levels of society opportunities to succeed there. Instead, the power elite in Mexico are content with maintaining the status quo and dumping their problems on the U.S.'s doorstep instead of solving them. The protesters should focus their time and energy on reforming Mexico to make it a better place to live so that people will want to stay there."

Ann wrote on April 15, 2006 9:37 AM:"The comments seen here tell the story! With their marches and boycotts, they do nothing but shoot themselves in the foot! I have been disgusted for quite some time with illegal aliens sneaking in our country, and I for one am very happy it finally gets sharp notice. Go ahead, illegals, boycott in droves, let more and more citizens realize you should never been here in the first place. You are costing me plenty of money, way more than all of you bring in! And after your boycott, I will also boycott: the businesses than used you! I will know who they are, because by not working there, you will be giving me that information."

Nitro wrote on April 15, 2006 9:52 AM:"I am boycotting All Mexican resturants and so are most of my friends no more Robertos EVER. Our boycott is not just one day it is forever! "

Billy 88 wrote on April 15, 2006 9:53 AM:"Marches, boycotts, waving the Mexican flag are killing both the legals and the illegals. People who wouldn't that upset about immigration are being brought into the fray against guest worker and amnesty laws being anacted. These idiots who are the organizers of these protests by the Mexicans are killing their own causes. They might not know any other form of protests but that shows the mentality of these organizers and the herd that blindly follows them. Legal immigration is the only path to follow NOT illegal. The wall will get built, the Border Patrol will be strenghtened and eventually most illegals will go home and won't be able to come back unless legally. The illegals are such a financial burden on the taxpayer that they are protesting by politically voting out of office any amnesty supporting lawmakers. Look at the crime reports every day, at least 75% are of Mexican decent. Most are illegals. Home invasions, kidnapping now on both sides of the border. Mexicans are used to lawlessnes and this lawlessness is invading SD County. It has to stop. Loyalty to one country only. If you are not a citizen of the U.S. you must stay in Mexico. If you are a citizen of the U.S. you cannot vote in Mexico. Talk Enlish as you are in the U.S. etc., etc.Don't bring Caesar Chavez or M.L. King into this as they had opposite views than the protestors."

FR wrote on April 15, 2006 10:00 AM:"A May Day workers boycott. These are not illegal immigrants. These are communists sneaking in through Mexico."

Mike America wrote on April 15, 2006 10:05 AM:"As I type, I've read 18 post against the May 1st pro illegal alien rallies, 3, I couldn't figure out,and NONE for it. It only confirms what I already knew; that most Americans are on the right side of this arguement, but are cowering behind the curtains at home waitng for it to end and hoping for the best. I have a few suggestions. 1)DON'T orginize any counter rallies; the pro illegal side have a violent element antagonizing them and the media will always cover our movement with their usual left wing bias.2) May 1st falls on a Monday; whatever you would normally purchase on a Sunday: groceries,gas,cars,ect, difer til that Mon,May 1st.3)Fly that flag, (American)from your home, car, wherever you can, and wear patriotic clothing.4) Call, write, and e-mail your congressmen, senators, and the white house and let them know whatever bill they sign better have FUNDED provisions for securing our borders and begin a process for repealing or amending the XIV Amendment (the anchor baby incentive regarding citizenship).Get going. Good luck and God bless America!"

sue wrote on April 15, 2006 10:07 AM:"I CAN'T WAIT FOR A PEACEFUL DAY IN ESCONDIDO GOING SHOPPING AND FEELING LIKE I AM NOT IN MEXICO. "

JOE wrote on April 15, 2006 10:11 AM:"CAN WE BOYCOTT THEIR HEALTHCARE AND EMERGENCY ROOM VISITS ON THAT DAY? LETS GET IN ON THIS!!!"

AMY wrote on April 15, 2006 10:13 AM:"TOO BAD THEY DON'T BOYCOTT US FOR THE REST OF THEIR LIFE!! STAY HOME FOCUS ON THEIR FAMILIES IN MEXICO WHERE THEY ARE LEGAL!! "

Robert wrote on April 15, 2006 10:15 AM:"It really is time to wake up, all you illegals, and understand that you are not helping the cause by rationalizing your illegiality. Boycott, don't go to school or work, don't purchase any goods on a certain day, etc, only makes you stand out more. I am here legally (interesting how you cannot tell my nationality) and do not believe that I should support you who choose not to do the right thing and earn your citizenship. It may take a long time, but anything worth achieving takes work. Boycott, don't work or go to school or whatever, it will only highlight your illegal status to me and others, and help me to identify those of you who are cheating the system, America, and, most importantly, yourself and your children. "

Jak wrote on April 15, 2006 10:19 AM:"YES! Now I can go to WalMart and have it all to myself!"

Dickey wrote on April 15, 2006 10:42 AM:"ILLEGAL immigrant = criminal. Unlawful. Unlegal. Going against the law. And they ask us to simply turn our heads and ignore that they are here ILLEGALLY?! Let's hope La Imigracion is working extra hard on Monday May 1 - knocking on doors at homes! And here's another thought - since the AMERICAN boycott is that day I would presume they'll simply be sitting around eating food they purchased earlier in the week from U.S. grocery stores, watching movies or television originally supplied by U.S. companies, or driving cards originally purchased in the U.S. ... One thing is for sure - we'll be running our household errands on May 1."

Once the fringe element wrote on April 15, 2006 10:59 AM:"sees how much power there is in withholding services they (congress)will come around to working with Mexicans. It is literally possible for them to shut down CA and the US. Wait and watch."

Sally wrote on April 15, 2006 11:08 AM:"These people need to go back to Mexico and boycott over there!! Boycott the low wages and bad living conditions, boycott in Mexico D.F. and demand health care and better living conditions. Why can't they do that in their OWN country that way they can get what they want in order to stay in their own country. They claim to love Mexico so much, so why don't they stay in Mexico and do whatever it is they need to do to make living better over there? They don't need to be boycotting anything over here, they already have it too good!"

rob wrote on April 15, 2006 11:22 AM:"Once again all of you hiding behind the web. They need to remove this comment box so idiots on here can't say stuff. You people are very rude and have nothing to say that is worth my time listening to. If you want your voices heard than do something else other than complain to all of us. We are very close to Mexico and in a few years Mexicans will run Southern Cali...and you cant stop it...lol....lol...lol...lol"

jrnrc wrote on April 15, 2006 11:28 AM:"That is great!! i no longer will need a spanish translator while i go shopping. "

Jim wrote on April 15, 2006 11:29 AM:"I just received a bill form my local hospital. I was in the ER for three hours. The bill came to $7,000.00 of which the hospital is after me for $4,200.00 because Blue Cross is refusing to pay all of it. Don’t anyone try and tell me that I am not supporting illegal aliens healthcare. "

Robert wrote on April 15, 2006 11:29 AM:"Let's take this opportunity to make this "Legal Aliens Day". All of us who have done the right thing and made the effort to be here legally (learned English, have a "real" Social Security card, pay taxes, etc.)should shop, shop , shop on May 1st. What a great opportunity to show that we have earned the right to be Americans, no matter what our color or race, by doing the right and legal thing. I am fired up! This is one of the greatest ideas the illegal immigrants have ever had, and will only highlight the rights and privileges that those of us who are here legal, and not scared of this talk of immigration reform, know we have earned. I can't wait to speak English to all the clerks and folks I buy from on May 1st, since there will be no illegal help that day. Maybe, if there is enough time, we could also remove all of the Spanish printed materials and information from all of the businesses that have to provide English and Spanish, at additional cost, to conform to these folks who choose not to learn the language of America! This shall be a great day in America!!!!"

jrnrc wrote on April 15, 2006 11:34 AM:"Great. i can now shop with out a spanlish translator..."

Just Remember wrote on April 15, 2006 11:36 AM:"Busby supports Teddy Kennedy's plan to let illegals buy amnesty. Don't buy her "it's not amnesty" baloney. Send a message to her and Teddy Kennedy on June 6, that we want representatives who will stand up for law-abiding Americans! "

Jim wrote on April 15, 2006 11:40 AM:"When they had all the demonstrations the other day with millions of people not at school or at work, I didn’t notice any difference in my daily routine. I think they should extend their boycott to a week so we could get a really good feel for it."

Nitro - Thanks, I won't have wrote on April 15, 2006 11:43 AM:"to wait behind you ever again. Heck of a job."

K. Rangel wrote on April 15, 2006 12:16 PM:"It's a strange irony that illegal aliens mostly of European descent have erected their own laws and tenets, and Mexican people of indigenous descent have long been in these lands long before the illegals came. Strange irony that the illegals have created no line, process, or procedures and have gained the so called legitimacy of citizenship while depriving or restricting non-whites the access they have been privileged with. Times are now changing, and the realities once enjoyed by whites are quickly evaporating. The nation-state is no longer reflected by the illegals or white Anglos, but by a plethora of ethnicities which is quickly becoming of the US a multi-nation state, composed by the legitimancy of many ethnicities to the dismay of so many illegals of Anglo-Saxon lineage."

PG wrote on April 15, 2006 12:37 PM:"How about for the whole MONTH of May we do not allow these individuals to get their FREE HEALTH CARE, FOOD STAMPS,WIC,SECTION 8 HOUSING, EDUCATION, ETC. I agree with many of the comments here.They are not helping our economy when everything they get is usually FREE anyway. One day will not make a DAMN BIT OF DIFFERENCE. Fire all the people who don't go to work too!"

ZAPATA wrote on April 15, 2006 12:55 PM:"I AM PROUD TO BE A MEXICAN AMERICAN. THE MEXICAN SIDE WANTS FOR MY PEOPLE TO BE TREATED WITH SOME RESPECT AND TO HAVE SOME RIGHTS, WE ARE NOT ASKING FOR RICHES AS YOU CAN SEE. BUT THE AMERICAN SIDE WANTS TO MAKE THEM CRIMINALS AND WANNA SEND THEM TO MEXICO. MY FRIENDS IF WE DONT COME TO AN AGREEMENT SOON THIS WILL ERUPT INTO SOME BIG MESS. I LIVE IN AN UPSCALE WHITE NEIGHBORHOOD AND IM 100% MEXICAN. MY NEIGHBORS, WHITE & BLACK ARE REAL GOOD PEOPLE. WE CAN ALL LIVE TOGETHER IF WE SHOW A LITTLE RESPECT & FAIRNESS TO EVERYBODY NO MATTER WHAT COLOR SKIN YOU ARE. ! I DO ! I DONT HAVE TO. BUT I DO IT BECAUSE IM 29 YEARS OLD AND IM SLOWLY SEEING HOW LIFE REALLY IS. I GOTTA BE COLOR BLIND IN ORDER TO LIVE A COMFORTABLE LIFE AND IT FEELS PRETTY GOOD. ITS REAL HARD FOR ME BECAUSE I WAS RAISED IN A MENTALITY THAT MEXICANS STICK WITH MEXICANS AND BLACKS & WHITES STICK WITH EACH OTHER. IF WE TRY THIS WE CAN ALL DO IT TOGETHER. IT AINT GONNA BE PERFECT LIKE EVERYTHING IN LIFE. BUT IT SHOULD WORK."

anayeli wrote on April 15, 2006 12:56 PM:"Forget the one day boycott, it won't do any good. Instead we need 5 to 10 million account holders to withdraw all does not their money from banks that honor matricular consular and indiviudal taxpayer "ID" (designed for those legally here who have no social security #)but used by illegal immigrants to open bank accounts, transfer money, get mortgages,etc. In order for this plan to have the desired affect we must 1)find a bank that has decided not to profit by illegal immigration 2) organize ourselves so that we have a critical mass of people that will execute the withdrawls simutaneously. Stay tuned for a website that will get this movement started."

Ann wrote on April 15, 2006 1:04 PM:"Wow. I have never seen such a hate filled string of posts. You all must have some serious resentment built up. I encourage you to visit your church during this holiest of seasons. Pray to Jesus that you can have the courage and serenity to shed your hatred. What would you do if you had no way to feed your family and the only available jobs required you to illegally cross a border for the luxury of working long hours for little pay. What would Jesus do? And Jak - while you are at Wal-Mart... please think of all of the children in third world countries that are working for pennies on the dollar so that you can purchase cheap products. God Bless all of your poor souls. God Bless America."

James wrote on April 15, 2006 1:15 PM:""One thing that always catches people's attention is their pocketbooks," said Morones. "This is a way we know we can bring attention to the rights we are asking for." Yep, you're right baby. That's why the American people are disgusted with the millions of illegal aliens who have ripped off our social service, educational and medical system, along with using fake names to get jobs and stealing our social security numbers. Well said Morones. "

Dan wrote on April 15, 2006 1:48 PM:"I have never seen such a bunch of whiners in my life. Stop blaming illegal aliens for all your problems. There are issues to deal with, yes, but illegal aliens are probably not the reason your life stinks. If I had to choose between paying more for health care and other programs and having to live around such racist, ugly complainers, I'll take the illegal immigrants any day. "

Ann - You are one of the few wrote on April 15, 2006 1:50 PM:"reasonable people here. The rest are cruel, blood thirsty monsters."

David wrote on April 15, 2006 1:52 PM:"Please if your going to boycott,don't use our hospitals,drive on our roads, call our 911 system, collect any welfare,collect any food stamps,just stay home and breath the free air so you want cost me any money. Matter of fact, just take the week off. "

Dan - God Bless you, Sir wrote on April 15, 2006 1:52 PM:"Too many other problems to worry about poor folks who want to support their families."

? wrote on April 15, 2006 1:58 PM:"May 1st - The Big Stop. April 30th - the big stock up. ?"

harry wrote on April 15, 2006 1:58 PM:"I started out pretty neutral about a month ago on the issue of immigration reform. I enjoy Latin culture and moved here from a region where there were almost no mexicans. I had no prejudice and welcome diversity. I have no economic interest in the matter. I usually favor the least privledged and vulnerable. In recent weeks I have found myself taking a decided defensive pro American stance; the demonstrations seem to me to attack America and American institutions. The demands and the threats are illogical, insulting and wildly inappropriate. They have made me resentful and definately moved me to the anti ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION camp. I don't necessarily advocate an aggressive deportation program--but I do believe we need to secure the border and then check legal status at every interface with our government. I also favor the active enforcement of labor laws and punitive measures against corporate scoff-laws who exploit the issue for their personal gain. If the effect of the demonstrations and boycott threat has been the same for others as me--they have lost a lot. Don't Tread On Me! "

Angel wrote on April 15, 2006 2:06 PM:"After reading all of these comments i notice that all of you are idiots. You keep saying deport them all how are we going to do that?You keep saying all mexicans thats been racist.You guys keep saying that illegal should boycott all the benefits that they get.If its like that you don't you guys say that they boycott the arm forces.Many of them get a legal status in the USMC.If you feel that they should all go back, go to the Marines Bases and tell them to deport all the new recruits that were illegal.Believe it or not they are able to go and fight in wars for a country that doesn't even want them."

Rob wrote on April 15, 2006 2:09 PM:"To the Joel Medina quoted in the article; what the hell are you doing? You come here illegally at 12, you don't get legal until the last huge amnesty mistake this Country made that was supposed to fix the problem but only made it 100 times worse, you are supervisor of a maintenance crew, yet you have something to protest about in regards to illegal alien rights, of which there are none? You are just the type of ingrate that is the root of the problem. You tell your workers who are probably all illegal to risk their jobs and join you in this ridiculous protest and boycott. You obviously are doing pretty well in this Country financially to be able to buy hundreds of dollars in protest T shirts and can afford to risk losing a good job. Poor baby, this Country has treated you and all the others just like you so horribly! What a bunch of hypocrites and puppets who will march to the drum on May Day just like all good little socialists that Mecha and La Raza and Lulac and MoveOn want you to be. Please boycott and walk out of schools and your jobs, your abscence will be greatly enjoyed by the majority of Americans."

Rob wrote on April 15, 2006 2:16 PM:"I don't know which world you live in Dan, but the correlation you draw between people that are against illegal aliens and racists is just ignorant. Typical name calling by someone who has nothing real to add to the discussion."

Luis wrote on April 15, 2006 2:21 PM:"Well i don't blame them for comeing but i think its time to do something about the problem.After the 1986 Amnesty the thing that didnt work was that the gov't didnt do anything about the border.I say put the military in the border so they do something that actually works.After that the illegals who pay taxes and cause no problem to the rest of the Citizens can stay and about the gangbanger in jail deport them when they get out.After the gov't gives work to all of its citizens and there is still a need of worker they can put the guest worker program in use.Its not perfect but it realistic"

Rob wrote on April 15, 2006 2:22 PM:"To K. Rangel, it is always so amusing to hear an illegal alien advocate's argument that our European ancestors came here illegally. Oh really, there was an established Country here already with a Consitution and immigration laws? It's so funny how you choose to revise history to suit your silly argument. "

Rodger wrote on April 15, 2006 2:49 PM:"It is simple, enter the RIGHT way and ALL persons will be accepted with open arms. This is not about religion and race, it is the LAW."

Rob - Well, I believe what wrote on April 15, 2006 2:52 PM:"Rangel was trying to say was that this particular ground was not originally inhabited by us. Indians were here. Because it was not a white man's style of gov't it doesn't matter? No, Sir. We took the land from the Indians and gave them trinkets. Makes me feel proud all right."

Mike wrote on April 15, 2006 2:52 PM:"Are you kidding me? Why does everyone think the ONLY illegals crossing the boarder are ones that want to work hard? How do you think the terrorists, Mexican gang members and militia got here? From over the boarder! Sure there are some that want to come here and work, but what about the rest of them. And the idiot mayor of L.A. Mayor Villareconquista does not clean our toilets, mow our yards, or take care of our kids. What a joke! I hope the Mexicans boycott because it's just a bunch of HYPE. So what, I won't be able to get my car washed that day, or my lawn won't be mowed, but next time it sure won't be by an illegal. These walk outs are a joke too, most of them are teenagers that have no clue why they're walking out and most of them are going to be high school drop outs anyway. Get familiar. "

El Guero wrote on April 15, 2006 2:54 PM:""Being poor here, or being poor in Mexico, which do you think they'd prefer?" One out of six Mexicans now lives in America. Milton Friedman said you can't have open borders and a welfare state. Naturally, we have both."

Katy wrote on April 15, 2006 3:16 PM:"For the next several weeks I will NOT buy anything made in Mexico, not will I frequent ANY establishment that has Mexicans working there. I will also not go to Baja as I frequently do. Two can play that game!"

Pete wrote on April 15, 2006 3:18 PM:"Here is an idea, While all of you are boycotting, why not go down to Mexico and protest, carry signs and take your corrupt goverment back. Maybe your protesting in the wrong country. "

Belle wrote on April 15, 2006 3:22 PM:"I sympathize with children who are legal US citizens facing seeing their parents become felons. However, it is not the fault of the US government, it is the fault of their parents for breaking the law. 11,000,000 people is an ample number of people to work together to fix the problems in their own country; they don't need to stay here and mess up ours too."

against illegal immigration wrote on April 15, 2006 3:36 PM:"Cool, a day without a Mexican! I hope they boycott the whole month. Just hope they understand that they cannot use their free medical insurance or food stamps either. Ahhh, a trip to the grocery store with out getting stuck behind someone using WIC! Sounds like heaven to me. I hope they make this a monthly thing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Pedro wrote on April 15, 2006 3:56 PM:"DAE is right on! Go back and get in line! Crime is not suppose to pay! Some people can't get that thru their thick skulls! They hide behind racial issues! RIOTS COULD ERUPT! I'M GONNA DO LIKE ALAN AND STOCK UP ON GUNS AND SUPPLIES! AFTER THEY PASS THE BILL, PUT A BOUNTY OF $1000 ON THEIR HEAD! I DON'T CARE WHAT COUNTRY THEIR FROM! THEY'RE ILLEGAL!"

perri. wrote on April 15, 2006 4:08 PM:"lets se how many people want to come to this country, If we said well give them citizenship if they joined the armed forces, and go to iraq."

kitty wrote on April 15, 2006 4:48 PM:"I guess Jack in the Box, Burger King, and Mc Donalds will be closed for the day!"

Bob wrote on April 15, 2006 5:07 PM:"To the people that obey the law AND WAIT THEIR TURN and do not cross illegally; I hope the law does not send you the message that "VIRTUE IS IT'S OWN PUNISHMENT"."

Former CA resident wrote on April 15, 2006 5:40 PM:"Immigrants used to come here to be Americans; that's how it should be Protesters unite to show they disagree with an issue. This is their form of free speech. As for my freedom of speech, please take note. My forebears came to America to better themselves and their children. They came to be Americans. They learned the language and the lifestyle. Speaking and reading and "ciphering" were taught to the children, and the children taught their parents. They all honored the American flag, even when at war with their former homeland. At home, these parents taught their children their heritage and ethnic foods, and shared their backgrounds. In the schools and out in public, all spoke English. While my ancestry was shared by our parents we/they never expected the schools to cater to our background. Neither should you. Teddy Roosevelt said it best; simply put, it means: one country, one language, one loyalty and one flag. Parents, teach your children the old-country ways, but be grateful and thankful for who you are now. We may have different heritages, but now we are Americans -- first and foremost. "

Mark wrote on April 15, 2006 5:47 PM:"Cheers for Perri! The answers are out there! You want citizenship? Do your time and pay for your crime on the front line of the armed services! 4 years!"

Robert wrote on April 15, 2006 6:06 PM:"Angel, before you go calling everyone idiots, take the time to read what is being said. I see very little mention of Mexicans, and a lot of mention of illegal aliens. If they happen to be Mexican, that is just a fact, not a racist remark. Care to offer up if you are leagl or not? If you are, welcome. If you are not, go home. I don't care what "color" you are, it is all about being legal."

Daniel wrote on April 15, 2006 6:20 PM:"wow! I never realised that there were so many ignorant people,everybody is barking to the wrong tree. all of you should go back and learn more about history and figure out for yourself what part the immigrants took in this country, and learn about capitalism, and figure out why immigrants came to this country, then learn about politics and see who left the door open for us to come here. I'm a proud resident of this country who came here illegaly and has save a lot of american citizens lifes and make my community better for all of us; please all of you go back to the school and this time try to learn something."

laughing out loud wrote on April 15, 2006 6:29 PM:"Everyone is blaming illegals for the economic problems and I agree they do have more freebies than I will ever be entitled to. But have you looked around at how many losers of all races we have on the welfare system. Section 8 housing for stupid girls that get pregnant in high school is wrong. If this people knew that the goverment would not be footing the bill they would think TWICE!!!"

Rob wrote on April 15, 2006 7:28 PM:"Daniel, before you call anyone else ignorant you need to go borrow or steal a dictionary and look up the word illegal. None of us rational Americans are against I-M-M-I-G-R-A-T-I-O--N. We are against I-L-L-E-G-A-L A-L-I-E-N-S. You were actually able to read all these comments and not figure that out? Very scary! "

Pete wrote on April 15, 2006 7:41 PM:"Well said Rob!!!!!"

William wrote on April 15, 2006 7:58 PM:"While I'm not sure if it's an overall net gain or loss, note that people here illegally DO pay taxes: sales taxes when buying food, cars, etc. plus for those on a standard payroll, there are state and federal income taxes, SSI, etc., and they can never collect on the social security benefits that are deducted from their paychecks. ---- I am pretty disappointed in the xenophobic hate I see being espoused here. Guns? No more Mexican food? Come on people, please be a bit more rational."

Skip wrote on April 15, 2006 8:22 PM:"I just hope that everyone who skips work on May 1, gets Fired ! Instead of a day without Illegal Aliens, how about a year?...a decade ? Maybe then I can put my children back in the public school system, and English Speaking students will once again be the norm. It costs me a lot to put my children in Private schools, but isn't their education worth it. Oh and I suppose a lot of my tax dollars also goes to putting Illegal Alien Children in Public schools."

Rob - The dictionary won't wrote on April 15, 2006 8:39 PM:"solve these problems. Didn't you get enough love as a child?"

Pride or Scared wrote on April 15, 2006 9:26 PM:"It's funny you cowards hide behind computers, phone calls and other ways of getting your word out there but it's all the same to us Immigrantes!It's really simple take a deep breath and and hold it untill we are all gone! With out all the immigrants here in the U.S. you would not have culture. You would still be probably having kids with your own brothers and sister...."

DUMBFOUNDED wrote on April 15, 2006 9:47 PM:"WHO SAID IMMIGRATION IS BAD? OCEANSIDE ALLOWS IT EVERY WEDNESDAY WHEN ESTHER SANCHEZ COMES UP TO VOTE ON THE COUNCIL."

Gilbert wrote on April 15, 2006 10:36 PM:"Daniel this is about the law. These illegals need to go back to the end of the line and wait their turn! Wake up!"

Jose-Pablo wrote on April 15, 2006 10:48 PM:"VIVA LA RAZA!! YOU KNOOOW, WE WILL OVERCOME AND THEN YOU CAN PICK MY TOMATOES!"

Add Your Comments or Letter to the Editor

Originally Posted by concernedmother

http://nctimes.com/articles/2006/04/..._314_14_06.txt


Local residents say they'll join May boycott

By: BRENDA DURAN - Staff Writer

NORTH COUNTY ---- They have marched by the thousands, written letters to Congress, and walked out of school, all in an effort to stop lawmakers from passing any immigration law that would make felons of more than 11 million undocumented immigrants.

So, what's next?

"El Gran Paro," or "The Big Stop," on May 1, a Monday, according to protest organizers and immigration rights groups. The planned nationwide boycott is apparently aimed at encouraging those who oppose current proposed immigration laws to stay home from work or school and to refrain from buying any goods.


At last Sunday's so-called March for Dignity, Respect and Hope in Balboa Park that drew an estimated 50,000 protesters, organizers passed out fliers stamped with the words, "The May 1st Stop," urging people to get gasoline, food and other supplies by April 30th.

The buzz has already begun to spread throughout North County, where an estimated 4,000 residents took part in Sunday's demonstration.

San Marcos resident and activist Arnoldo Marin said he expects thousands of North County residents to turn out again for the May event.

"There are millions who have been ignored," Marin said in Spanish. "It's time everyone realize immigrants are an important part of this country and deserve rights. This is a good way of proving it."

The proposed federal legislation that kicked off protests around the country, HR 4437, would have made it a felony to be in the country illegally and would also criminalize those who help illegal immigrants.

The Senate Judiciary Committee has approved a less rigid version of the bill. Recent amendments include omitting the criminalization of those who help illegal immigrants and allowing those immigrants who have been in the United States for more than six years to be eligible for permanent residency and to be able to continue working once they pay fines.

The bill has stalled.

The national boycott is intended to bring even more attention to the immigration debate, said Enrique Morones, one of the main organizers of the Balboa Park march.

"One thing that always catches people's attention is their pocketbooks," said Morones. "This is a way we know we can bring attention to the rights we are asking for."

Morones said that protest organizers from San Diego, South Bay, East County and North County have been taking part in teleconferences all week with nationwide organizations to plan for the May 1 events, including marches and parades.

In North County, various plans have already been discussed.

In Vista, Tina Jillings, co-founder of the Coalition for Peace, Justice and Dignity, held a meeting Thursday to plan a march that will coincide with the boycott.

However, others such as San Marcos resident Ray Lopez are taking a different approach to the boycott. Lopez said some San Marcos residents are planning to meet with San Marcos Unified School District Superintendent Ed Brand and city officials in upcoming weeks to discuss the impact the boycott could have on schools and the city.

"At this point, we just want to avoid another student walkout," Lopez said.

Advance reaction from businesses has been mixed.

The national chain, Souplantation & Sweet Tomatoes Inc., issued a statement this week to employees, saying they risked losing their jobs if they boycott work on May 1, and urged workers to find other ways to express their opinions.

Morones said boycott organizers are also telling residents who are reluctant to miss work that they could participate by refraining from buying things, by registering to vote, or asking to work a half-shift that day.

Escondido resident Joel Medina, a maintenance supervisor at Seven Oaks, a community in Rancho Bernardo, said he has already begun encouraging his five-member crew to take to the street on May 1, and asked them to call their family and friends to join in.

"I worry about being fired," Medina said. "I worry about being disciplined. But it's okay."

Born in Mexico to a mother with American citizenship, Medina said he illegally crossed the border at the age of 12, and didn't apply for citizenship until the amnesty program of 1987. His experience, he said, gives him an understanding of what so many migrant families are going through, and he said he hopes any immigration reform will include a path to some form of legal status for them here.

"If we don't do something, the families are going to suffer," he said, adding that eliminating job opportunities for immigrants won't drive them back to their country of origin. "Being poor here, or being poor in Mexico, which do you think they'd prefer?"

Beyond asking his workers to march, Medina has also shelled out $475 to print 10 dozen T-shirts for the event. The shirts read "Friends not enemies" in English and Spanish, and feature two hands shaking, one wrapped in an American flag, the other a blend of flags from around the world ---- Mexico, Canada, France and Britain.

Staff writer David Fried contributed to this report. Contact staff writer Brenda Duran at (760) 761-4408 or bduran@nctimes.com.

Comments On This Story

Note: Comments reflect the views of readers and not necessarily those of the North County Times or its staff.
bryan wrote on April 14, 2006 10:08 PM:"I think all the legal workers in the san diego should boycott mexico. Dont go to mexico, dont buy any products that are made in mexico. Dont buy mexican food. "

billybob wrote on April 14, 2006 10:13 PM:"If the illegal aliens want to boycott something why dont they boycott the free health care they get, why dont they botcott the free schooling they and their kids get, dont be calling the police or fire dept boycott them too. Dont be driving on the highways during your boycott also. Dont go and spend any of the food stamps that my government has given you during your boycott. "

DAE wrote on April 14, 2006 10:25 PM:"These illegal aliens have to go back to Mexico and turn back around and get in line for the proper papalas. Then once they become American citizens they will have rights to pay for school,healthcare,taxes for the cost of people that are illegal and run from law enforcement at a high speed in vans that crash and injure or kill 10-20 people. Taxes pay for our police and emt's and insurance Co. pay for damages. That is right and fair. Don't you THINK?"

alan wrote on April 14, 2006 10:47 PM:"This illegal immigration issues is not going away anytime soon. I feel that this is going to lead to violence or riots in our cities. I am stocking up on supplies and purchasing aditional guns for protecting my family."

de wrote on April 14, 2006 10:54 PM:"The illegal aliens (that's what they are) contribute a lot to this great and beautiful nation that my father fought in three wars to secure the citizens saftey and freedom to obey the laws of the land. Their contributions is in the increased amount of trash we see on the road ways,gang activity and killings and also the 29% we have residing in our prisons. And I could go on etc...."

facts wrote on April 14, 2006 10:55 PM:"Illegal immigrants cost california's taxpayers $10.5 billion a year for educationn, medical care and incarceration. This amounts to $1183 per household headed by a native born resident. "

jackson wrote on April 14, 2006 11:20 PM:"May 5 and June 30 have been selected as the days for 1 day "strikes", where American Citizens will transact no commerce: Remain home from work, using vacation, leave, sick time or whatever is available to you. Take no public transportation. Transact no business. Make no purchases. Consider turning off your TV, radio and computers. For one day, make no contribution to the economy of the nation. For one day focus on the home, family, books etc. "

Cassandra wrote on April 14, 2006 11:35 PM:"de you are hysterical!!!"

cynthia wrote on April 14, 2006 11:40 PM:"search web for "boycott mexico""

......... wrote on April 14, 2006 11:41 PM:"i think all this people should not boycott why?? they want to prove that they're needed in this country.. maybe they are but who ask them to come?? they came by themselves i dont think president Bush sent them a letter asking them to come...they complain of low pay but what they earn here in one hour they earn it on their country on the whole day..they also cost taxpayers lots of money and most of them dont even pay taxes they live with the money that we taxpayers pay to the government.. eventhough i have mexican background im against this boycott thing.."

tony wrote on April 14, 2006 11:50 PM:"calling an illegal alien an undocumented immigrant is like calling a burglar an uninvited house guest."

What a Joke wrote on April 15, 2006 1:01 AM:"I don't claim to be an economist but according to this article, the money will be spent before May 1st. They're not planning to do without; they're just stocking up early. They should do this every month! If they intend to prove something they need to find smarter activists."

Chris wrote on April 15, 2006 1:12 AM:"Follow the Big Stop with the Big Lockout. Lock them out of school and work for a week. They do not value what they are already receiving from us."

Retired Sheriff wrote on April 15, 2006 2:18 AM:"Good! Now I can enjoy my day on May 1st by going to the store and not have to deal with a woman and her 11 screaming kids. "

Ray wrote on April 15, 2006 2:22 AM:"Let them boycott and leave work again. All that will happen is they will get fired and whine more. Besides the last marches lowered the crime rate last week, a good thing."

Pittsburgh wrote on April 15, 2006 2:50 AM:"How are citizens that aid illegals not being punished as accessories to crime? Everyone better get on your kids and tell them to start looking for jobs because if this immigration issue is to be won by legal citizens that are tired of handing out freebies, we need to show these illegals that we do not need them. They undermine our laws, they undermine our tax system, and they undermine the right of citizens to be able to work for a reasonable rate. Canada has free healthcare. They can go there."

Heather wrote on April 15, 2006 6:28 AM:"Why don't they want to HONOR America and hold the USA flag , It makes no sense that they want to burn our flag but still live in the Land Of The Free. Go back to Mexico if you want to do that. The only people this is hurting our the young KIDS.. That is who they should be thinking about."

JR wrote on April 15, 2006 6:50 AM:"It's honest to all the other immigrants and Americans that applied and were approved for legal entry to deport illegals and have them apply the honest way like they did. Otherwise, they're starting their experience with a sin. Look what happened to Europe."

To Tony wrote on April 15, 2006 6:57 AM:"That statement is as true today as it was yesterday when I read it at the end of a well written editorial by Victor Chabala. Not to take away from the sentiment, but we are going to need original thought to solve this problem. Instead of plagiarizing at least have the courtesy to cite your source."

Gene wrote on April 15, 2006 7:52 AM:"I am a Catholc who is very upset with the support of the Catholic Church. The bible teache us that Jesus said you should support the laws of the land, and give Ceasar what is Ceasar. (taxes) I believe in feeding the poor and the homeless, but no where in the bible does it state that I can find, is that you should condone criminals. Breaking the law is breaking the law. If we went to Mexico who has a very strict law and guards it borders on the south. They do not pratice what they want the US to do. I have been robbed 3 time and all 3 times it was illegals from Mexico. So don't tell me that they are law abiding. Look at the wall and buiding that have gang graffiti. Send them home to apply the legal way like my great great grandparents did from England & Ireland. Why should we reward them for breaking the LAW Most illegals who stand on street corners are paid at least $10.00 and lunch. They paid no taxes, no insurance. My son makes 15.00 per hour, after taxex he makes less then $10.00. Plus the illegal's family is more then likely on welfare and has free medical care. WHO IS KIDDING WHO They are beeding us dry. Pre. Fox is laughing in our face. Down with NAFTA"

tony - The first illegals wrote on April 15, 2006 8:21 AM:"were the jews who stole Palistinian land and formed a country. That is the entire problem in a nutshell. Muslims will not permit israel to exist on their land. Period. Wake up. Bombing will only cause more Americans to die."

to Medina who said this: wrote on April 15, 2006 8:28 AM:""If we don't do something, the families are going to suffer," he said, adding that eliminating job opportunities for immigrants won't drive them back to their country of origin. "Being poor here, or being poor in Mexico, which do you think they'd prefer?" So does that mean that I can go to Mexico and be filthy dirty rich there??? NO??? The Mexican government won't let me??? That's what I thought... "

frank wrote on April 15, 2006 8:30 AM:"Iam an american citizen from mexican desent.i served in vietnam usmc.i am republican pay taxes vote work 3 jobs.when people say send all mexicans back to mexico their saying frank.that is saying to me their racist towards me and hard working law abiding citizens.oh by the way i volenteered.the problem with immagration is our elected officals.we need to secure our borders. our enemy is watching write your congressand call we must secure our borders now today.i love my country and our flag i gave my life for the great usa.i served honorably.god bless the usa."

Hal wrote on April 15, 2006 8:37 AM:"All of the illegals won't walk out. They don't have any recourse if fired. The scum La Raza and MEcha the brown barret hats are running this. They don't care about the deseases and possible criminals that come accross unchecked. Do the 11+ Million so called "just want to work crowd" include the 23% illegals in jail, gangbangers etc? These groups don't show for work on to work on Monday May 1st because it is SOCIALIST DAY! They are the "My bodies for hire" people for the Soros and Moveon. Why don't you see them down in their real country Mexico fighting against Fox and gang? Because they are chicken littles. We are heading for a civil war and I just want to know what side people are going to be on. Will they fight for the country here that has given them free stuff or "Viva Mexico" and that flag? "

RWC wrote on April 15, 2006 8:52 AM:"The new law does not make these illegal immigrants criminals. They already are! Legal immigrants have rights, criminals do not. If illegal immigrants have rights, why become a legal citizen? These demonstrations are not promoting freedom. There is no freedom without law, only chaos. If these people really cared about their future, they would learn English, take US history and government classes, and become legal citizens. That is what every other nationality has done. Why do Mexicans believe they are special and deserve an exception to the past practice and laws of our nation?"

Straycat wrote on April 15, 2006 8:56 AM:"All Americans, legal workers/persons should go out and buy,buy,buy on the day of the illegal alien boycott. What don't the illegal aliens understand, they are here ILLEGALY!!! Against our law, they are criminals!!!!!!!!!!"

Peg wrote on April 15, 2006 9:06 AM:"The source of all these problems lies at the feet of the corrupt Mexican government. People would not be leaving Mexico in droves if Mexico was properly providing for its own people and giving all levels of society opportunities to succeed there. Instead, the power elite in Mexico are content with maintaining the status quo and dumping their problems on the U.S.'s doorstep instead of solving them. The protesters should focus their time and energy on reforming Mexico to make it a better place to live so that people will want to stay there."

Ann wrote on April 15, 2006 9:37 AM:"The comments seen here tell the story! With their marches and boycotts, they do nothing but shoot themselves in the foot! I have been disgusted for quite some time with illegal aliens sneaking in our country, and I for one am very happy it finally gets sharp notice. Go ahead, illegals, boycott in droves, let more and more citizens realize you should never been here in the first place. You are costing me plenty of money, way more than all of you bring in! And after your boycott, I will also boycott: the businesses than used you! I will know who they are, because by not working there, you will be giving me that information."

Nitro wrote on April 15, 2006 9:52 AM:"I am boycotting All Mexican resturants and so are most of my friends no more Robertos EVER. Our boycott is not just one day it is forever! "

Billy 88 wrote on April 15, 2006 9:53 AM:"Marches, boycotts, waving the Mexican flag are killing both the legals and the illegals. People who wouldn't that upset about immigration are being brought into the fray against guest worker and amnesty laws being anacted. These idiots who are the organizers of these protests by the Mexicans are killing their own causes. They might not know any other form of protests but that shows the mentality of these organizers and the herd that blindly follows them. Legal immigration is the only path to follow NOT illegal. The wall will get built, the Border Patrol will be strenghtened and eventually most illegals will go home and won't be able to come back unless legally. The illegals are such a financial burden on the taxpayer that they are protesting by politically voting out of office any amnesty supporting lawmakers. Look at the crime reports every day, at least 75% are of Mexican decent. Most are illegals. Home invasions, kidnapping now on both sides of the border. Mexicans are used to lawlessnes and this lawlessness is invading SD County. It has to stop. Loyalty to one country only. If you are not a citizen of the U.S. you must stay in Mexico. If you are a citizen of the U.S. you cannot vote in Mexico. Talk Enlish as you are in the U.S. etc., etc.Don't bring Caesar Chavez or M.L. King into this as they had opposite views than the protestors."

FR wrote on April 15, 2006 10:00 AM:"A May Day workers boycott. These are not illegal immigrants. These are communists sneaking in through Mexico."

Mike America wrote on April 15, 2006 10:05 AM:"As I type, I've read 18 post against the May 1st pro illegal alien rallies, 3, I couldn't figure out,and NONE for it. It only confirms what I already knew; that most Americans are on the right side of this arguement, but are cowering behind the curtains at home waitng for it to end and hoping for the best. I have a few suggestions. 1)DON'T orginize any counter rallies; the pro illegal side have a violent element antagonizing them and the media will always cover our movement with their usual left wing bias.2) May 1st falls on a Monday; whatever you would normally purchase on a Sunday: groceries,gas,cars,ect, difer til that Mon,May 1st.3)Fly that flag, (American)from your home, car, wherever you can, and wear patriotic clothing.4) Call, write, and e-mail your congressmen, senators, and the white house and let them know whatever bill they sign better have FUNDED provisions for securing our borders and begin a process for repealing or amending the XIV Amendment (the anchor baby incentive regarding citizenship).Get going. Good luck and God bless America!"

sue wrote on April 15, 2006 10:07 AM:"I CAN'T WAIT FOR A PEACEFUL DAY IN ESCONDIDO GOING SHOPPING AND FEELING LIKE I AM NOT IN MEXICO. "

JOE wrote on April 15, 2006 10:11 AM:"CAN WE BOYCOTT THEIR HEALTHCARE AND EMERGENCY ROOM VISITS ON THAT DAY? LETS GET IN ON THIS!!!"

AMY wrote on April 15, 2006 10:13 AM:"TOO BAD THEY DON'T BOYCOTT US FOR THE REST OF THEIR LIFE!! STAY HOME FOCUS ON THEIR FAMILIES IN MEXICO WHERE THEY ARE LEGAL!! "

Robert wrote on April 15, 2006 10:15 AM:"It really is time to wake up, all you illegals, and understand that you are not helping the cause by rationalizing your illegiality. Boycott, don't go to school or work, don't purchase any goods on a certain day, etc, only makes you stand out more. I am here legally (interesting how you cannot tell my nationality) and do not believe that I should support you who choose not to do the right thing and earn your citizenship. It may take a long time, but anything worth achieving takes work. Boycott, don't work or go to school or whatever, it will only highlight your illegal status to me and others, and help me to identify those of you who are cheating the system, America, and, most importantly, yourself and your children. "

Jak wrote on April 15, 2006 10:19 AM:"YES! Now I can go to WalMart and have it all to myself!"

Dickey wrote on April 15, 2006 10:42 AM:"ILLEGAL immigrant = criminal. Unlawful. Unlegal. Going against the law. And they ask us to simply turn our heads and ignore that they are here ILLEGALLY?! Let's hope La Imigracion is working extra hard on Monday May 1 - knocking on doors at homes! And here's another thought - since the AMERICAN boycott is that day I would presume they'll simply be sitting around eating food they purchased earlier in the week from U.S. grocery stores, watching movies or television originally supplied by U.S. companies, or driving cards originally purchased in the U.S. ... One thing is for sure - we'll be running our household errands on May 1."

Once the fringe element wrote on April 15, 2006 10:59 AM:"sees how much power there is in withholding services they (congress)will come around to working with Mexicans. It is literally possible for them to shut down CA and the US. Wait and watch."

Sally wrote on April 15, 2006 11:08 AM:"These people need to go back to Mexico and boycott over there!! Boycott the low wages and bad living conditions, boycott in Mexico D.F. and demand health care and better living conditions. Why can't they do that in their OWN country that way they can get what they want in order to stay in their own country. They claim to love Mexico so much, so why don't they stay in Mexico and do whatever it is they need to do to make living better over there? They don't need to be boycotting anything over here, they already have it too good!"

rob wrote on April 15, 2006 11:22 AM:"Once again all of you hiding behind the web. They need to remove this comment box so idiots on here can't say stuff. You people are very rude and have nothing to say that is worth my time listening to. If you want your voices heard than do something else other than complain to all of us. We are very close to Mexico and in a few years Mexicans will run Southern Cali...and you cant stop it...lol....lol...lol...lol"

jrnrc wrote on April 15, 2006 11:28 AM:"That is great!! i no longer will need a spanish translator while i go shopping. "

Jim wrote on April 15, 2006 11:29 AM:"I just received a bill form my local hospital. I was in the ER for three hours. The bill came to $7,000.00 of which the hospital is after me for $4,200.00 because Blue Cross is refusing to pay all of it. Don’t anyone try and tell me that I am not supporting illegal aliens healthcare. "

Robert wrote on April 15, 2006 11:29 AM:"Let's take this opportunity to make this "Legal Aliens Day". All of us who have done the right thing and made the effort to be here legally (learned English, have a "real" Social Security card, pay taxes, etc.)should shop, shop , shop on May 1st. What a great opportunity to show that we have earned the right to be Americans, no matter what our color or race, by doing the right and legal thing. I am fired up! This is one of the greatest ideas the illegal immigrants have ever had, and will only highlight the rights and privileges that those of us who are here legal, and not scared of this talk of immigration reform, know we have earned. I can't wait to speak English to all the clerks and folks I buy from on May 1st, since there will be no illegal help that day. Maybe, if there is enough time, we could also remove all of the Spanish printed materials and information from all of the businesses that have to provide English and Spanish, at additional cost, to conform to these folks who choose not to learn the language of America! This shall be a great day in America!!!!"

jrnrc wrote on April 15, 2006 11:34 AM:"Great. i can now shop with out a spanlish translator..."

Just Remember wrote on April 15, 2006 11:36 AM:"Busby supports Teddy Kennedy's plan to let illegals buy amnesty. Don't buy her "it's not amnesty" baloney. Send a message to her and Teddy Kennedy on June 6, that we want representatives who will stand up for law-abiding Americans! "

Jim wrote on April 15, 2006 11:40 AM:"When they had all the demonstrations the other day with millions of people not at school or at work, I didn’t notice any difference in my daily routine. I think they should extend their boycott to a week so we could get a really good feel for it."

Nitro - Thanks, I won't have wrote on April 15, 2006 11:43 AM:"to wait behind you ever again. Heck of a job."

K. Rangel wrote on April 15, 2006 12:16 PM:"It's a strange irony that illegal aliens mostly of European descent have erected their own laws and tenets, and Mexican people of indigenous descent have long been in these lands long before the illegals came. Strange irony that the illegals have created no line, process, or procedures and have gained the so called legitimacy of citizenship while depriving or restricting non-whites the access they have been privileged with. Times are now changing, and the realities once enjoyed by whites are quickly evaporating. The nation-state is no longer reflected by the illegals or white Anglos, but by a plethora of ethnicities which is quickly becoming of the US a multi-nation state, composed by the legitimancy of many ethnicities to the dismay of so many illegals of Anglo-Saxon lineage."

PG wrote on April 15, 2006 12:37 PM:"How about for the whole MONTH of May we do not allow these individuals to get their FREE HEALTH CARE, FOOD STAMPS,WIC,SECTION 8 HOUSING, EDUCATION, ETC. I agree with many of the comments here.They are not helping our economy when everything they get is usually FREE anyway. One day will not make a DAMN BIT OF DIFFERENCE. Fire all the people who don't go to work too!"

ZAPATA wrote on April 15, 2006 12:55 PM:"I AM PROUD TO BE A MEXICAN AMERICAN. THE MEXICAN SIDE WANTS FOR MY PEOPLE TO BE TREATED WITH SOME RESPECT AND TO HAVE SOME RIGHTS, WE ARE NOT ASKING FOR RICHES AS YOU CAN SEE. BUT THE AMERICAN SIDE WANTS TO MAKE THEM CRIMINALS AND WANNA SEND THEM TO MEXICO. MY FRIENDS IF WE DONT COME TO AN AGREEMENT SOON THIS WILL ERUPT INTO SOME BIG MESS. I LIVE IN AN UPSCALE WHITE NEIGHBORHOOD AND IM 100% MEXICAN. MY NEIGHBORS, WHITE & BLACK ARE REAL GOOD PEOPLE. WE CAN ALL LIVE TOGETHER IF WE SHOW A LITTLE RESPECT & FAIRNESS TO EVERYBODY NO MATTER WHAT COLOR SKIN YOU ARE. ! I DO ! I DONT HAVE TO. BUT I DO IT BECAUSE IM 29 YEARS OLD AND IM SLOWLY SEEING HOW LIFE REALLY IS. I GOTTA BE COLOR BLIND IN ORDER TO LIVE A COMFORTABLE LIFE AND IT FEELS PRETTY GOOD. ITS REAL HARD FOR ME BECAUSE I WAS RAISED IN A MENTALITY THAT MEXICANS STICK WITH MEXICANS AND BLACKS & WHITES STICK WITH EACH OTHER. IF WE TRY THIS WE CAN ALL DO IT TOGETHER. IT AINT GONNA BE PERFECT LIKE EVERYTHING IN LIFE. BUT IT SHOULD WORK."

anayeli wrote on April 15, 2006 12:56 PM:"Forget the one day boycott, it won't do any good. Instead we need 5 to 10 million account holders to withdraw all does not their money from banks that honor matricular consular and indiviudal taxpayer "ID" (designed for those legally here who have no social security #)but used by illegal immigrants to open bank accounts, transfer money, get mortgages,etc. In order for this plan to have the desired affect we must 1)find a bank that has decided not to profit by illegal immigration 2) organize ourselves so that we have a critical mass of people that will execute the withdrawls simutaneously. Stay tuned for a website that will get this movement started."

Ann wrote on April 15, 2006 1:04 PM:"Wow. I have never seen such a hate filled string of posts. You all must have some serious resentment built up. I encourage you to visit your church during this holiest of seasons. Pray to Jesus that you can have the courage and serenity to shed your hatred. What would you do if you had no way to feed your family and the only available jobs required you to illegally cross a border for the luxury of working long hours for little pay. What would Jesus do? And Jak - while you are at Wal-Mart... please think of all of the children in third world countries that are working for pennies on the dollar so that you can purchase cheap products. God Bless all of your poor souls. God Bless America."

James wrote on April 15, 2006 1:15 PM:""One thing that always catches people's attention is their pocketbooks," said Morones. "This is a way we know we can bring attention to the rights we are asking for." Yep, you're right baby. That's why the American people are disgusted with the millions of illegal aliens who have ripped off our social service, educational and medical system, along with using fake names to get jobs and stealing our social security numbers. Well said Morones. "

Dan wrote on April 15, 2006 1:48 PM:"I have never seen such a bunch of whiners in my life. Stop blaming illegal aliens for all your problems. There are issues to deal with, yes, but illegal aliens are probably not the reason your life stinks. If I had to choose between paying more for health care and other programs and having to live around such racist, ugly complainers, I'll take the illegal immigrants any day. "

Ann - You are one of the few wrote on April 15, 2006 1:50 PM:"reasonable people here. The rest are cruel, blood thirsty monsters."

David wrote on April 15, 2006 1:52 PM:"Please if your going to boycott,don't use our hospitals,drive on our roads, call our 911 system, collect any welfare,collect any food stamps,just stay home and breath the free air so you want cost me any money. Matter of fact, just take the week off. "

Dan - God Bless you, Sir wrote on April 15, 2006 1:52 PM:"Too many other problems to worry about poor folks who want to support their families."

? wrote on April 15, 2006 1:58 PM:"May 1st - The Big Stop. April 30th - the big stock up. ?"

harry wrote on April 15, 2006 1:58 PM:"I started out pretty neutral about a month ago on the issue of immigration reform. I enjoy Latin culture and moved here from a region where there were almost no mexicans. I had no prejudice and welcome diversity. I have no economic interest in the matter. I usually favor the least privledged and vulnerable. In recent weeks I have found myself taking a decided defensive pro American stance; the demonstrations seem to me to attack America and American institutions. The demands and the threats are illogical, insulting and wildly inappropriate. They have made me resentful and definately moved me to the anti ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION camp. I don't necessarily advocate an aggressive deportation program--but I do believe we need to secure the border and then check legal status at every interface with our government. I also favor the active enforcement of labor laws and punitive measures against corporate scoff-laws who exploit the issue for their personal gain. If the effect of the demonstrations and boycott threat has been the same for others as me--they have lost a lot. Don't Tread On Me! "

Angel wrote on April 15, 2006 2:06 PM:"After reading all of these comments i notice that all of you are idiots. You keep saying deport them all how are we going to do that?You keep saying all mexicans thats been racist.You guys keep saying that illegal should boycott all the benefits that they get.If its like that you don't you guys say that they boycott the arm forces.Many of them get a legal status in the USMC.If you feel that they should all go back, go to the Marines Bases and tell them to deport all the new recruits that were illegal.Believe it or not they are able to go and fight in wars for a country that doesn't even want them."

Rob wrote on April 15, 2006 2:09 PM:"To the Joel Medina quoted in the article; what the hell are you doing? You come here illegally at 12, you don't get legal until the last huge amnesty mistake this Country made that was supposed to fix the problem but only made it 100 times worse, you are supervisor of a maintenance crew, yet you have something to protest about in regards to illegal alien rights, of which there are none? You are just the type of ingrate that is the root of the problem. You tell your workers who are probably all illegal to risk their jobs and join you in this ridiculous protest and boycott. You obviously are doing pretty well in this Country financially to be able to buy hundreds of dollars in protest T shirts and can afford to risk losing a good job. Poor baby, this Country has treated you and all the others just like you so horribly! What a bunch of hypocrites and puppets who will march to the drum on May Day just like all good little socialists that Mecha and La Raza and Lulac and MoveOn want you to be. Please boycott and walk out of schools and your jobs, your abscence will be greatly enjoyed by the majority of Americans."

Rob wrote on April 15, 2006 2:16 PM:"I don't know which world you live in Dan, but the correlation you draw between people that are against illegal aliens and racists is just ignorant. Typical name calling by someone who has nothing real to add to the discussion."

Luis wrote on April 15, 2006 2:21 PM:"Well i don't blame them for comeing but i think its time to do something about the problem.After the 1986 Amnesty the thing that didnt work was that the gov't didnt do anything about the border.I say put the military in the border so they do something that actually works.After that the illegals who pay taxes and cause no problem to the rest of the Citizens can stay and about the gangbanger in jail deport them when they get out.After the gov't gives work to all of its citizens and there is still a need of worker they can put the guest worker program in use.Its not perfect but it realistic"

Rob wrote on April 15, 2006 2:22 PM:"To K. Rangel, it is always so amusing to hear an illegal alien advocate's argument that our European ancestors came here illegally. Oh really, there was an established Country here already with a Consitution and immigration laws? It's so funny how you choose to revise history to suit your silly argument. "

Rodger wrote on April 15, 2006 2:49 PM:"It is simple, enter the RIGHT way and ALL persons will be accepted with open arms. This is not about religion and race, it is the LAW."

Rob - Well, I believe what wrote on April 15, 2006 2:52 PM:"Rangel was trying to say was that this particular ground was not originally inhabited by us. Indians were here. Because it was not a white man's style of gov't it doesn't matter? No, Sir. We took the land from the Indians and gave them trinkets. Makes me feel proud all right."

Mike wrote on April 15, 2006 2:52 PM:"Are you kidding me? Why does everyone think the ONLY illegals crossing the boarder are ones that want to work hard? How do you think the terrorists, Mexican gang members and militia got here? From over the boarder! Sure there are some that want to come here and work, but what about the rest of them. And the idiot mayor of L.A. Mayor Villareconquista does not clean our toilets, mow our yards, or take care of our kids. What a joke! I hope the Mexicans boycott because it's just a bunch of HYPE. So what, I won't be able to get my car washed that day, or my lawn won't be mowed, but next time it sure won't be by an illegal. These walk outs are a joke too, most of them are teenagers that have no clue why they're walking out and most of them are going to be high school drop outs anyway. Get familiar. "

El Guero wrote on April 15, 2006 2:54 PM:""Being poor here, or being poor in Mexico, which do you think they'd prefer?" One out of six Mexicans now lives in America. Milton Friedman said you can't have open borders and a welfare state. Naturally, we have both."

Katy wrote on April 15, 2006 3:16 PM:"For the next several weeks I will NOT buy anything made in Mexico, not will I frequent ANY establishment that has Mexicans working there. I will also not go to Baja as I frequently do. Two can play that game!"

Pete wrote on April 15, 2006 3:18 PM:"Here is an idea, While all of you are boycotting, why not go down to Mexico and protest, carry signs and take your corrupt goverment back. Maybe your protesting in the wrong country. "

Belle wrote on April 15, 2006 3:22 PM:"I sympathize with children who are legal US citizens facing seeing their parents become felons. However, it is not the fault of the US government, it is the fault of their parents for breaking the law. 11,000,000 people is an ample number of people to work together to fix the problems in their own country; they don't need to stay here and mess up ours too."

against illegal immigration wrote on April 15, 2006 3:36 PM:"Cool, a day without a Mexican! I hope they boycott the whole month. Just hope they understand that they cannot use their free medical insurance or food stamps either. Ahhh, a trip to the grocery store with out getting stuck behind someone using WIC! Sounds like heaven to me. I hope they make this a monthly thing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Pedro wrote on April 15, 2006 3:56 PM:"DAE is right on! Go back and get in line! Crime is not suppose to pay! Some people can't get that thru their thick skulls! They hide behind racial issues! RIOTS COULD ERUPT! I'M GONNA DO LIKE ALAN AND STOCK UP ON GUNS AND SUPPLIES! AFTER THEY PASS THE BILL, PUT A BOUNTY OF $1000 ON THEIR HEAD! I DON'T CARE WHAT COUNTRY THEIR FROM! THEY'RE ILLEGAL!"

perri. wrote on April 15, 2006 4:08 PM:"lets se how many people want to come to this country, If we said well give them citizenship if they joined the armed forces, and go to iraq."

kitty wrote on April 15, 2006 4:48 PM:"I guess Jack in the Box, Burger King, and Mc Donalds will be closed for the day!"

Bob wrote on April 15, 2006 5:07 PM:"To the people that obey the law AND WAIT THEIR TURN and do not cross illegally; I hope the law does not send you the message that "VIRTUE IS IT'S OWN PUNISHMENT"."

Former CA resident wrote on April 15, 2006 5:40 PM:"Immigrants used to come here to be Americans; that's how it should be Protesters unite to show they disagree with an issue. This is their form of free speech. As for my freedom of speech, please take note. My forebears came to America to better themselves and their children. They came to be Americans. They learned the language and the lifestyle. Speaking and reading and "ciphering" were taught to the children, and the children taught their parents. They all honored the American flag, even when at war with their former homeland. At home, these parents taught their children their heritage and ethnic foods, and shared their backgrounds. In the schools and out in public, all spoke English. While my ancestry was shared by our parents we/they never expected the schools to cater to our background. Neither should you. Teddy Roosevelt said it best; simply put, it means: one country, one language, one loyalty and one flag. Parents, teach your children the old-country ways, but be grateful and thankful for who you are now. We may have different heritages, but now we are Americans -- first and foremost. "

Mark wrote on April 15, 2006 5:47 PM:"Cheers for Perri! The answers are out there! You want citizenship? Do your time and pay for your crime on the front line of the armed services! 4 years!"

Robert wrote on April 15, 2006 6:06 PM:"Angel, before you go calling everyone idiots, take the time to read what is being said. I see very little mention of Mexicans, and a lot of mention of illegal aliens. If they happen to be Mexican, that is just a fact, not a racist remark. Care to offer up if you are leagl or not? If you are, welcome. If you are not, go home. I don't care what "color" you are, it is all about being legal."

Daniel wrote on April 15, 2006 6:20 PM:"wow! I never realised that there were so many ignorant people,everybody is barking to the wrong tree. all of you should go back and learn more about history and figure out for yourself what part the immigrants took in this country, and learn about capitalism, and figure out why immigrants came to this country, then learn about politics and see who left the door open for us to come here. I'm a proud resident of this country who came here illegaly and has save a lot of american citizens lifes and make my community better for all of us; please all of you go back to the school and this time try to learn something."

laughing out loud wrote on April 15, 2006 6:29 PM:"Everyone is blaming illegals for the economic problems and I agree they do have more freebies than I will ever be entitled to. But have you looked around at how many losers of all races we have on the welfare system. Section 8 housing for stupid girls that get pregnant in high school is wrong. If this people knew that the goverment would not be footing the bill they would think TWICE!!!"

Rob wrote on April 15, 2006 7:28 PM:"Daniel, before you call anyone else ignorant you need to go borrow or steal a dictionary and look up the word illegal. None of us rational Americans are against I-M-M-I-G-R-A-T-I-O--N. We are against I-L-L-E-G-A-L A-L-I-E-N-S. You were actually able to read all these comments and not figure that out? Very scary! "

Pete wrote on April 15, 2006 7:41 PM:"Well said Rob!!!!!"

William wrote on April 15, 2006 7:58 PM:"While I'm not sure if it's an overall net gain or loss, note that people here illegally DO pay taxes: sales taxes when buying food, cars, etc. plus for those on a standard payroll, there are state and federal income taxes, SSI, etc., and they can never collect on the social security benefits that are deducted from their paychecks. ---- I am pretty disappointed in the xenophobic hate I see being espoused here. Guns? No more Mexican food? Come on people, please be a bit more rational."

Skip wrote on April 15, 2006 8:22 PM:"I just hope that everyone who skips work on May 1, gets Fired ! Instead of a day without Illegal Aliens, how about a year?...a decade ? Maybe then I can put my children back in the public school system, and English Speaking students will once again be the norm. It costs me a lot to put my children in Private schools, but isn't their education worth it. Oh and I suppose a lot of my tax dollars also goes to putting Illegal Alien Children in Public schools."

Rob - The dictionary won't wrote on April 15, 2006 8:39 PM:"solve these problems. Didn't you get enough love as a child?"

Pride or Scared wrote on April 15, 2006 9:26 PM:"It's funny you cowards hide behind computers, phone calls and other ways of getting your word out there but it's all the same to us Immigrantes!It's really simple take a deep breath and and hold it untill we are all gone! With out all the immigrants here in the U.S. you would not have culture. You would still be probably having kids with your own brothers and sister...."

DUMBFOUNDED wrote on April 15, 2006 9:47 PM:"WHO SAID IMMIGRATION IS BAD? OCEANSIDE ALLOWS IT EVERY WEDNESDAY WHEN ESTHER SANCHEZ COMES UP TO VOTE ON THE COUNCIL."

Gilbert wrote on April 15, 2006 10:36 PM:"Daniel this is about the law. These illegals need to go back to the end of the line and wait their turn! Wake up!"

Jose-Pablo wrote on April 15, 2006 10:48 PM:"VIVA LA RAZA!! YOU KNOOOW, WE WILL OVERCOME AND THEN YOU CAN PICK MY TOMATOES!"

Add Your Comments or Letter to the Editor

" "One thing that always catches people's attention is their pocketbooks," said Morones. "This is a way we know we can bring attention to the rights we are asking for."I think they have done that already,the Money I mean.The Billions we spend each year raising them didn`t get our attention.It`s the marching that got American attention.I say "March On" and March yourself right out of this country.
I hear that all of the companies that may be affected by this so called "Walk Out" are going to make that day a holliday and everyone will be off work anyway.....Net Reaults of "Walk Out".....ZERO....NADA,just in case one dosn`t understand "ZERO".