In this age when those on the right love immigrant bashing, many of us have forgotten that Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs), people not yet citizens, were subject to the draft before it ended and that males, whether citizens or not, 18 to 26, are required to register for Selective Service within 30 days of their entry into the United States.
Many LPRs have volunteered to go into the military, and have fought bravely for the Nation, from World War I through the present day. Jose Marquez served 3 years on active duty and 5 in the reserves, but he had a problem: drug abuse resulting from the trauma of war and seeing his buddies killed.
He thought he was a citizen because he had filled out an application, but the Army never filed it. He was deported. Now 20 years later, under a Biden program, he is back to what he considers his home, having lived here since the age of 5. He and others served and many died for the country they considered home. Don’t you think he and others should have that second chance?
Prayer for the Day
It’s so easy, O God, to draw lines around people,
People we castigate for their failings;
But you, O God, know all our weaknesses and sins,
Forcing us to wonder: would we be any different?
Enter our hearts, Holy One, opening us to a broader vision,
One of inclusion, not of boundaries pushing people out.
In the name of the One who includes all in the Kingdom,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
Our deported veterans are as American as any American-born citizen. I dare say, they have gone above and beyond by service. We are no less American because of our imperfections.
Hector Barajas, formerly deported veteran, now a U.S. citizen
Substantial research has assessed the relationship between immigration and crime. Numerous studies show that immigration is not linked to higher levels of crime, but rather the opposite.
Brianna Seid, researcher, The Brennan Center
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me.
Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your holy spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a steadfast spirit.
Psalm 51: 10-13