Over the years there has been quite a bit of debate about the issue of immigration. There tends to be a lot of anger coming from both sides of the argument, whether it’s directed towards the immigrants or those opposing immigration, so The Mentor editorial board sat down this past week to discuss a solution to the problem at hand after the recent illegal crossing into the United States through San Diego.

The US itself is a huge melting pot. There are people from every continent, every culture, every religion and every race living in America. Every citizen has ancestors who are immigrants, no matter how distant, unless they’re purebred Native American. No American has the right to be upset that citizens of other countries want to come here to create a life for themselves and their families. None of us would be here if it wasn’t for people in the past doing the very same thing. America is the land of freedom and opportunity and we have no right to deny anybody of that.

While it is ideal when those immigrating to the US take all of the legal means necessary to do so, illegal immigrants should not be treated as less than people. They are still human beings and need to be treated as such. They’re coming here to have a better life and escape whatever situation they may be in. Being greeted with guns, imprisonment, fines and deportation doesn’t solve anything and makes the situation worse all around. But once in the US, they should be aided in taking whatever means necessary to become citizens. Many Americans seem to not understand how fortunate they are to be in a country where, for the most part, they are safe and have basic needs met.

While there is concern that of illegal immigrants were granted citizenship they would merely sit and collect welfare, it’s difficult to get a job if you aren’t a citizen unless it’s under the table and likely low paying. If they were given citizenship they would be able to have legitimate careers to provide for themselves as well as pay taxes. The editorial board came to the consensus that the United States government should take any means necessary to help, not punish, those seeking refuge in America and aid in the transition to contributing members of our society.