The four students have great courage to walk into the den of their enemy. This courage, in turn, is inspiring–it shows that even in these bleak times, an individual can reach and affect the seemingly implacable power of the U.S. government. If that sheriff in Georgia had a free hand, I would bet the house that he would arrest and hand over the students to ICE. What is happening is that the White House is afraid to touch them; it would look bad for them on a highly visible scale. Viva la lucha!

Great video; it breathes life into the absurdity of what immigration detention is.

Speaking of 287(G), as you probably know, Steve Levy, the current county executive of Suffolk County, is looking to run for governor of New York, under the GOP ticket. He tried to be one of those “Arpaio” types attempting to deputize Suffolk County police officers as ICE agents. I suggest that anyone in New York strongly oppose his candidacy for it would not be a pretty picture in New York for many if he reached office. Here is a piece I wrote on him the other day:

http://bryanjohnsonblog.com/2010/03/09/who-not-to-vote-for-ny-governor-steve-levy/

I’d be interested in your thoughts on the views of blogger Chaparral on immigration reform. It is a well-written, level-headed piece (i.e., the opposite of my vitriolic ranting): http://chaparralrespectsnoborders.blogspot.com/2010/03/best-immigration-law-is-no-law-at-all.html

The Center for Immigration Studies is considered a joke amongst demographers and academics. Unfortunately, they have a really neutral sounding name, and most people are not demographers/academics.

Excellent video as always. Nice hearing you over at WWL too!

Peace,

E