And I have a few relatives, too, who are anti-immigrant when their own parent(s) were immigrants. I can't understand it.
Coming improperly over the border or overstaying a work or visitor visa is not a criminal offense. (reentry after a deportation is)
/sidebar (yes, I'm turning this into an immigration discussion)
https://sheriffleefl.org/how_do_i/learn ... &id=927165
Elbert, he's been sitting in jail since August cause he hooked up with a crazy woman who is pill addict. He was warned by elders from Brazil to stay away from her (cause she has a known history), but boys being boys...
I know him, I've hung out with him at gatherings. I helped him get his car out of impound when he got arrested for driving w/no license (he should have got a DUI) (no, I didn't pay, I just helped him navigate the system-- expired registration, etc.).
His bail is $10k. But there is also an immigration hold on his docket. So when the state is done with him, it's game over.
People make mistakes. When they come to this country, they need to leave their vices behind. He fell right back into old habits (including cocaine). It's sad.
But that's such a small, small minority. Most do walk straight.
I don't fault Elbert (or any of the other many many names I personally know who could not make it work). There is that saying, "You can't save everyone" -- it's sadly true.