A study in contrast

THE true Emigre has a post well worth reading. My humble little town in central Indiana has now nearly 15% Hispanic population. This is a town of 17,000 people and all of this increase has come in the last 10 years.

When we first moved here the largest non-white population was Japanese managers and families living here to staff the numerous transplants. My neighborhood had several Japanese families. The elementary school my kids attended had many Japanese. Often these youngsters would arrive not able to speak a word of English. They worked hard, went to Saturday School, hired tutors and soon were able to communicate and learn. Sadly most of these boys and girls returned to Japan after 5 or 6 years, but I am sure they are richer for the experience of living in the good old USA.

The Elementary school now has a sizeable Hispanic population. I am informed it is improper to call these immigrants "Mexican". The school has posted every sign in English and Spanish. The school newspaper now comes in English on one side and Spanish on the back. We, the taxpayers, have hired 4 ESL teachers and aids to help these students learn English. The signs at the hospital are also now in English. Most businesses have bilingual signs.

Now let us contrast. The Japanese came to our community, built factories and created hundreds of jobs. They asked for no favors, in fact deemed it their responsibility to learn the customs and language of their temporary adopted home. The Hispanics come, demand we pay extra to make life easier, we speak their language etc. How many jobs have they created? Yes, they often do the low paying jobs many Americans will not do, but they also take the jobs that teenagers used to do. Try getting a part time or summer job in this town now. The Japanese made every effort to fit in -- at their expense, though they knew they would only be here a short time. The Hispanic demand we accommodate them, and they do not intend to leave.

4,000 illegals cross the border every day. Estimates are that by 2050, Hispanics will be the largest segment of our population. I can tell you, Middle America is fed up. If Bush wants to make sure his party is defeated in the 2008 elections, he need only continue with his lenient immigration policy. Mark my words, the next two election will be decided on immigration. We just need a politician with the balls to say what many of us believe -- enough is enough.