Actually what Mexico does is not as important as what we do.
If we integrate the people who are in USA now and make them productive members of our society, we’ll be the better for it. By marginalizing immigrants, we are only enlarging the cultural devide, not integrating anyone into society.
Bilingual education is good for English speakers and for Spanish speakers. Wouldn’t it wonderful if everyone in America were fluent in both languages? Let’s not think of bilingual education as a costly accommocation to the immigrants. It’s an opportunity for all kids to learn two languages at once. They will grow up to become more productive and learned citizens.
Personally, I think it’s a shame that some immigrants choose not to teach their native language to their children in the name of assimilation. For example, I have a professional friend of Chinese descent whose parents came to America in 1950. His parents never taught him Chinese. If he spoke Chinese, his career opportunities would be much greater. He could work for all kinds of businesses that trade with China.
If we speak Spanish and trade with Mexico, we can create opportunities for Mexico and for us. We can enlarge the economic pie and help Mexico improve its economy so Mexican workers no longer feel compelled to migrate North. A richer Mexico will become a better business partner for America.
If your neighbors are poor then the whole neighborhood goes now; but if your neighbors can fix-up their properties, then values will go up. Why not give your neighbors a hand?
