Pragmatic solutions can be moral ones, too

February 14, 2019
Larry Z. Burdoin
San Francisco
 
Re Illegal immigration into U.S. through southern border:
 
Is it permissible in Catholic thinking to consider addressing root causes of problems? Concerning the continuing tide of illegal immigrants entering the U.S. through our southern border, if we only treat the symptoms, then these symptoms will likely persist far into the future. I am all in favor of the corporal works of mercy, but there is a need to put forth solutions that address the root cause of the continuing problem of illegal immigration.
 
These countries of origin, which are effectively exporting their citizens, need to make reforms so that there can be economic growth and opportunity for their citizens. Barriers to growth and corruption must be remedied. As well, there needs to be an effective government approach to securing these societies from the violent depravations of the organized crime gangs that are out of control.
 
Pragmatic solutions can be moral ones, too.
 
Nancy Pelosi, who is not competent to play moral arbiter for our country, tells us that the border wall is immoral. If we are to believe her, then we are to close our eyes to the horrific and heinous human trafficking (for forced prostitution) of thousands of women and children each year through the porous southern border. Such trafficking is made much more difficult, and many victims are rescued, when it has to flow through secure ports of entry.
 
Let us avoid the temptation to recast Jesus in our minds as being like a San Francisco “progressive.”
 

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