We are a nation of very charitable people, and we are proud of it. Our country is great because of our heritage and sacrifices we have made to be the most successful nation in the world. We have a long history of jurisprudence and compassion.

When people break our laws, we should not call them “undocumented.� They are illegal aliens and must be prevented by every means from entering our borders.
Yes, those who have come here have contributed to our economy, and we must accept their status quo. The idea that illegal immigrants have a right to the beneficence of our protective social structure does not endear us to them.

Waving the Mexican flag does not endear us to them.

Not learning our language does not endear us to them.

The escalating costs of their healthcare and schooling does not endear us to them.

Not accepting our culture does not endear us to them.

We all acknowlege their contributions to our workforce and their strong work ethic.
However, we must adhere to principles on which our great country was founded.
They must learn of our history and be part of who we are as a country. Citizenship is a privilege and must be earned.

And when I see naturalized citizens shed a tear when singing our national anthem, knowing and appreciating what this nation has done for then, then will they be part of this great nation.

— Leonard Zerlin, Thousand Oaks