The Value of Citizenship Slipping

15 February 2010
By Bill Barton

I saw a copy of an alledged letter written by an Iowa constituent to Senator Harkin asking for his help in getting his status changed from U.S. citizen to 'illegal alien' because of the many advantages that would be available to him as an 'illegal'.

It is quite clear that this Iowa citizen has been exposed to the realities that are seen in many American communities where the numerous amenities are given to those of undocumented status.

In addition to seeing the quality of their neighborhoods changing and having to help pay for the many social benefits afforded the illegals, countless Utah citizen workers have been replaced by illegals.

There seems to be a number of unscrupulous employers who think only of immediate labor costs, paying little attention to the disastrous effect they are placing on Utah workers and the unemployment situation in their area.

It further appears that the establishment in our country is purposely working against the citizen as witnessed by the many agencies that appear eager to supply services to anyone without questioning citizenship status.

I don't think there are many citizens who would really like to become an 'illegal' but it does look like the American citizen is being discriminated against for the direct benefit of the illegal resident.

Is it any wonder that the pride and value of American citizenship is slipping and becoming less important?

There are some things we can do at the state and local level to discourage this sad situation. Please help to keep American citizenship the dominant and preferred status in Utah. Citizen's rights should be primary.