Editorial: Illegal immigrants create split in GV

The debate over humanitarian aid to illegal immigrants has flared again in Green Valley.

A sign found near Esperanza Estates was posted to warn border crossers about the presence of the Minutemen. On the other side, the sign said, “Humanitarian Aid is Never A Crime.”

The episode rates as a mild one on the surface but speaks to a deeper problem in the community.

Many oppose illegal immigration passionately and fear the consequences of aliens in neighborhoods. Others feel strongly, even religiously, about helping desperate people in need with food and water.

The ongoing problem in Esperanza Heights has caused concern for elderly and disabled residents. They become fearful when they see frequent illegals in their backyard and occasional Border Patrol helicopters flying overhead. A helicopter flying over the property three weeks ago “scared the residents to death,” Green Valley Coordinating Council president Russ Symes said.

We propose a constructive solution for everyone involved, the residents, the Minutemen and local Samaritans. During one of its regularly scheduled meetings, usually the third Monday of every month, we would like to see the Esperanza Estates Homeowners Association and GVCCC plan a forum on the problem of illegal immigration.

The Border Patrol and local Samaritan groups should attend, put their issues, fears and hopes on the table. The forum might start as a way for residents to vent their frustrations. It might evolve into a marathon shouting match. But we envision a conclusion that would offer solid advice, not mere philosophy, to residents.

One major problem has occurred in the residents’ fight against illegal immigrants. The Border Patrol has passed out magnetic cards for refrigerators. The phone number, (877) US BP HELP, rings to the Tucson Sector. Some callers say when Border Patrol agents answer, they are told to contact the Nogales Sector. The runaround, as some view it, can be exasperating.

Then there’s the issue of response times. The Pima County Sheriff’s office receives 9-1-1 calls about trespassers, and except in extreme cases, it might not respond. The Border Patrol, which is responsible for enforcement, can take up to two hours or more to respond.

Residents need to know that the vast majority of border crossers are not violent. They generally are passing through, looking for jobs or reuniting with their families in other locations.

The Border Patrol says its (877) US BP HELP number is valid. It encourages residents to report illegals by calling the hot line. Residents should not confront border crossers, the Border Patrol says. Some give water and food to illegals, and that’s no crime as long as there’s no plan to house or transport them.

At a public meeting on the Border Patrol permanent checkpoints, one man stood and told the crowd if illegals die in the desert, tough luck. It was their bad decision to cross in 100-degree temperatures. We disagree with that harsh and inhumane assessment.

We understand the plight for illegal immigrants. They want to work and send money to family in Mexico. We wish Congress would pass legislation to provide a guest-worker program.

Until then, we worry about Green Valley residents who don’t know what to do or where to turn when they see illegal activity. A public forum would go a long way toward easing concerns.

Unsigned editorials represent the opinion of this newspaper. E-mail responses to letters@gvnews.com.