Thread: Illegal immigrants degrade citizenship

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Illegal immigrants degrade citizenship
Maria C. Waltherr-Willard

In response to the editorial "Enforcement, not intimidation" Feb. 28
My parents and I arrived in the United States on July 4, 1969. As with many others, we had to wait for seven years in order to enter this country as legal Cuban refugees.
My aunt became our sponsor and was able to show that we were not going to be a public charge to this government. My father went from being an eye surgeon to a dispensing optician. When asked how he could adapt to such a change, he said: "I can breathe freedom, and my daughter will never have to view executions again on the public streets."
My family entered this country legally. My mother's greatest moment was, at age 75, when she recited the Pledge of Allegiance before Judge Ruben, in English, not Spanish. This, after riding the Cincinnati Metro three times a week for four years to Taft Place, where John Mullane of Travelers Aid taught English

I was able to teach her the American system of government, from what I learned at Fairfield High School, so that both she and I were able to pass citizenship tests. My mother and I were both sworn in as citizens before Judge Ruben in federal court. My mother and I also memorized and sang the national anthem in English with great pride.
As a naturalized American citizen, I would be outraged by the violation of my rights, but when I entered this country, I did not have to fear because I was a legal immigrant.
I am afraid that the problem has become too serious to let it go. Sheriff Richard Jones had to face the problems that are prevalent in Butler County and had the guts to do something about it.
Citizenship is a precious privilege to be earned, not something to be stolen by illegal entry into this country. Legitimizing illegal aliens is an insult to millions who have entered this great land legally and studied to learn its language and its customs. It also degrades the value of the precious right of citizenship.

Citizenship is a precious privilege to be earned, not something to be stolen by illegal entry into this country.

I'm glad there are legalized citizens out there who feel this way. My hat is off to all people who stuck it out and received their citizenship legally. From this American, a great big thanks!

Now aren't these the type of Human Beings we want to immirgrate into America? Not the ones sneaking in, shouting, waving fists, and demanding rights!