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 Editorials | Opinions | June 2007 
Finding a Nexus for Mexico's Future, US Immigration Policy
 Mark Alvarez - Salt Lake Tribune
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Last fall, Mexican President Felipe Calderon initiated "Mexico 2030" to build a long-term vision for the country. Calderon called on academics, policymakers and the Mexican people to share their vision for a better Mexico. The conversation focused on a question: "What is the Mexico we wish to see in 2030?"
The project concentrated on the following objectives: the rule of law, a competitive economy that would create jobs, equality of opportunity, sustainable development and effective democracy. The goal was to craft a guide for the Mexican government to effectively develop the energy, capacity and talent of the Mexican people, particularly the young.
Three weeks ago, President Calderon spoke on economics and emphasized "sustainable human development, a permanent process of expanding capacities and freedoms that permits all to live in dignity without compromising the opportunities of future generations." While actions must match rhetoric, the words hold promise.
The issue of Mexican economic development rarely arises in the debate over immigration in the United States. Most who mention Mexico do so to criticize or blame, sometimes wisely. Nevertheless, few seem to consider opportunities for cooperation with Mexico or the possibility that Mexicans might have goals and aspirations remarkably similar to those of people in the United States.
Migration will remain a challenge so long as great economic disparities exist, especially in this time of rapid globalization and increasing international interconnectedness. Countries will have to adapt their immigration systems to dynamic markets and realities.
What might have worked for 20 years or 200 years may not work today. Elected officials obstructing immigration reform should stop fighting facts and get back to work on addressing a major domestic and international challenge.
Because Mexican nationals comprise more than half of the unauthorized population in the United States, it makes sense to focus on Mexico. A recent Pew Hispanic Center analysis of migration flows suggested that Mexican migration to the United States has slowed since mid-2006. This includes legal immigrants, legal visitors and unauthorized migrants.
While some anti-immigrant activists might celebrate this downward trend, recent stories of businesses starved for workers and communities convulsed by population disruption or decline indicate the shortsightedness of that attitude. Wise policymakers will study the trend for its implications over time.
Unfortunately, though perhaps inescapably, our system encourages political leadership and advocacy that stretch no further than the next election. The current immigration debate struggles against the evolving presidential campaign and eager candidates willing to sacrifice substantive policy discussions for quick applause lines and winning political advertisements.
The United States needs leaders who can engage people in fashioning public policy looking toward a future beyond 2008. Strategic planning should include governments, schools, hospitals, businesses, nonprofits, churches, communities and people, especially those whose voices usually go unheard.
Though the future presents challenges such as health care, education and climate change, it also presents great opportunity for an open and agile society willing to courageously face facts and make wise decisions.
The conversation begins with a question: "What are the Utah and the United States we wish to see in 2030?"
Mark Alvarez is a Salt Lake City attorney. |
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