Photo by Tim Chadwick 

The Causes of Migration

Three from Lehigh Valley join delegation to El Salvador 

The United States is currently dealing with a wave of anti-immigrant sentiment that has found expression in the proposed construction of a wall along our border with Mexico, local and national efforts to establish an official language, and local laws that criminalize immigrants. 

Here in eastern Pennsylvania, many cities, boroughs and townships have passed or are considering legislation attacking the immigrant population. Hazleton, a city of 31,000, led the way with a law that criminalizes hiring, or renting a home to a person with incomplete documentation. Similar measures are being considered in Allentown (population 107,000), Shenandoah (5,300), and Mount Pocono (3,000). Ashland, Courtdale, Lancaster, Lansford, McAdoo, Nesquehoning, Frackville, Sunbury and West Mahanoy Township, all in east Pennsylvania, have also passed, or are considering similar laws. Elsewhere in the nation, Gadsden, Ala. (population 37,400), Kennewick, Wash. (61,000), Escondido, Calif. (134,000), Valley Park, Missouri, are following suit. A bill was narrowly rejected in Avon Park, Florida. (8,900). 

In Northampton County, the District Attorney, John Morganelli, has carried out raids by local law enforcement against employers who hire immigrants. Congressman Charles Dent has proposed vigilante overflights of the border by private pilots - his approach is crude and without nuance.  

There are an estimated 12 million immigrants living and working in the United States from Latin America. They have migrated here to support their families and to survive, not to prey on the United States people. They are here, I believe, because of forces set in motion by the United States. By remembering those who have given their lives, and by talking with those in the midst of the struggle today, Tim Chadwick, Sarah Snider and I will bring back a message of understanding. After our return, we will issue a report, and hopefully coordinate with others in trying to change the direction of our nation’s approach to those who have migrated here.  For more, see our news page and photo gallery.  Joe DeRaymond