I agree that this has become a nuanced issue. What I don’t agree with is how this law (in its present form) is being distorted and how the argument surrounding it is being framed.
First and foremost, let’s get to the heart of the matter: this issue is and should be solely about *illegal* immigration. Opponents of the new law skew the truth by saying it’s “racist” and it unfairly singles out Hispanic people. Most opponents say this without actually knowing what’s in the law. AZ police can’t stop anyone on the street without due cause and demand papers, as opponents suggest. They can only check individuals who are already under investigation and only if there’s “reasonable suspicion”.
Let’s be honest here. Would the Hispanic community be up in arms if New York passed a similar law to control a flood of illegal immigrants from Canada? I bet the answer would be no. Why? Well, for one thing, there is no flood of illegals coming from Canada, therefore, there’s no need for such a law. There is, however, such a flood coming from Mexico (and other parts of Central and South America) so there’s certainly a need down there. This true problem isn’t immigration but rather it’s lawlessness. We have systems and processes in place to help foreigners become legal citizens. Illegal immigrants are subverting our laws. That is the issue at hand. Obviously, opponents don’t want the law because that might mean friends and relatives living here illegally might be caught and sent home. What’s their only defense? Attack the law by calling it “racist”. Sorry, but I’m not racist for demanding greater border security because of this lawlessness.
I remember how many Americans wanted the blood of Big Bank CEO’s because they broke the law and it hurt our country. The CEO’s also all happened to be white. Interestingly, no one was called a “racist” for their bloodlust, nor is the current financial reform bill being labeled “racist” legislation. They broke the law. That was the problem and they’re being punished for it. Why was this OK and the AZ law not OK? Again, race isn’t really the issue here. Lawlessness is.