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'Loving Thy Neighbor': People of Faith Speak Out against Unjust Immigration Laws

A recent Center for American Progress report, "Loving Thy Neighbor: Immigration Reform and Communities of Faith," revealed to the progressive political community what many in the faith community have known for quite some time: a social movement is emerging, led by people of faith, in support of compassionate and humane immigration reform. The speakers at the release event, including Cardinal Roger Mahoney and Rep. James Clyburn (D-SC), spoke about community engagement on the controversial topic of immigration reform and the faith community's unique role in the public square.

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"It is not simply enough to feel badly for those who are suffering," said Jack Moline, rabbi of Agudas Achim Congregation in Alexandria, Virginia. He emphasized that people of faith who are motivated by compassion must also work for justice to provide a structure in society where immigrants can realize their full potential.

As campaign coordinator of Christians for Comprehensive Immigration Reform (CCIR), I travel all over the country and speak to local faith leaders who are deeply concerned about the status quo regarding immigrants in their communities. They are looking for scriptural guidance and practical answers about how to faithfully engage their congregations in dialogue and activism. Churches are often the place where immigrants feel safe and welcome in the U.S. and where they turn for guidance. During these trainings and discussions, stories pour out of pastors on the front lines that have seen families endure hardship and separation due to their immigration status.

The stories in the report reflect the transformation in the hearts and minds of the faithful who have become agents of change in their communities. People of faith are speaking out against the unjust laws governing our immigration system and insisting that any reform of immigration laws be born from love and compassion rather than fear and hatred.

In his opening remarks, Rep. Clyburn recalled his father's reaction when he announced he would pursue a path of public service instead of ordained ministry. His father replied, "The world would much rather see a sermon than hear one." I think that line accurately summarizes the mentality of this faith-driven movement. We practice what we preach and respond where there is suffering. People of faith are reaching out in political and prophetic ways to ensure justice and peace for all God's children, particularly the immigrant among us.

For the latest updates on our campaign, follow us on Twitter @CCIR.

Allison JohnsonAllison Johnson is the campaign coordinator of Christians for Comprehensive Immigration Reform. Her commentary "Shackling the Stranger" appeared in the April issue of Sojourners.

To learn more about immigration reform, visit www.faithandimmigration.org.

Sojourners relies on the support of readers like you to sustain our message and ministry.

by: stevenskattebo

10-01-2009 @ 9:02pm

kristawilson repeats perhaps the most common myth in this whole debate: that the undocumented immigrants are cutting in line: "but when you enter into the country shouldn't you enter legally, no one is turning people away if they wait in line and follow through the right channels."

This is false. There is no line for the poor. If you are poor, U.S. immigration will not give you a visa. There are no "right channels" if you're poor. If you are poor, you will be turned away. The words on the Statue of Liberty are not true; our government discriminates (i.e. restricts immigration) against the poor.

by: stevenskattebo

10-01-2009 @ 7:02pm

kristawilson repeats perhaps the most common myth in this whole debate: that the undocumented immigrants are cutting in line: "but when you enter into the country shouldn't you enter legally, no one is turning people away if they wait in line and follow through the right channels."

This is false. There is no line for the poor. If you are poor, U.S. immigration will not give you a visa. There are no "right channels" if you're poor. If you are poor, you will be turned away. The words on the Statue of Liberty are not true; our government discriminates (i.e. restricts immigration) against the poor.

by: stevenskattebo

10-01-2009 @ 7:02pm

kristawilson repeats perhaps the most common myth in this whole debate: that the undocumented immigrants are cutting in line: "but when you enter into the country shouldn't you enter legally, no one is turning people away if they wait in line and follow through the right channels."

This is false. There is no line for the poor. If you are poor, U.S. immigration will not give you a visa. There are no "right channels" if you're poor. If you are poor, you will be turned away. The words on the Statue of Liberty are not true; our government discriminates (i.e. restricts immigration) against the poor.

by: GlenPeterson

09-25-2009 @ 1:40pm

Even people who do not consider themselves "progressive" are finding that, when they become aware of the facts, comprehensive immigration reform is the right thing. We are working among people of faith and others in Southern California and are confronting the misconceptions with facts. Thanks to Sojourners for being a source of good information.

by: kristawilson27

09-25-2009 @ 8:29pm

I believe that god commanded us to take care of ourselves and our households first. That means, with so much unemployment, poverty and homelessness, we cannot take care of others at this time. There is a time when this will not be a problem. But, I don't think we should ignore the needs of the Americans here. As much as most people think Americans are lazy and hostile towards foreigners, you must note that among all nations we give the most charity, we have embraced the most people and tolerate the most. We must end the suffering and ease the pain of people that are less fortunate, but we must realize, as god has given up parameters and rules he still loves us. America has given enormously, but when you enter into the country shouldn't you enter legally, no one is turning people away if they wait in line and follow through the right channels. Even on the day of judgement when you enter into the gates of heaven how would you feel when you are asked, yes, you have helped others but your own house is in ruin. Away with you.

by: GlenPeterson

09-25-2009 @ 1:40pm

Even people who do not consider themselves "progressive" are finding that, when they become aware of the facts, comprehensive immigration reform is the right thing. We are working among people of faith and others in Southern California and are confronting the misconceptions with facts. Thanks to Sojourners for being a source of good information.

by: Brittanicus

09-25-2009 @ 8:47pm

E-verify could become a very significant immigration enforcement weapon, as it's shown to work extremely well? Opponents have used the courts in erroneous lawsuits as a delaying factor but failed to impress a Maryland federal judge. This application discloses unauthorized immigrants in the workplace, being continually modified in its operation as spreads into the business world. It now has been unleashed on government contractors and subcontractors to locate illegal foreign labor. We should reward those government public servants who have battled outside special interest groups for American workers. But denying elected office to those who tried to kill or weaken its capabilities. Americans should harass their politicians to enact E-Verify permanently and prepare its operational program offering many uses in the incessant law enforcement fight.

In credit practices it could determine a person's right to buy any vehicle, if in the United Statesillegally. It could also disrupt radical organizations like ACORN that was instrumental in assisting foreign nationals buying house mortgages, which had a major impact in the real estate collapse. E-Verify should also be installed in financial institutions, to stop fraudulent transactions using bogus SS # or IRS ITIN loan identification numbers. E-Verify could help emergency rooms identify illegal immigrants using forged documents and enable law enforcement to track the employer. That business should be forced to pay for the person's injury or treatment instead of the proverbial taxpayers. Schools, colleges could check new student admittances for their immigration status. The E-Verification identification system could accomplish numerous other extraction processes, in determining a person's right to government benefits. In addition, I'm for Health Reform and public option for some family members. Illegal immigrants should be exempt, except for emergency hospital access.

DON'T LET E-VERIFY EXPIRE ON SEPTEMBER 30? CALL YOUR LAWMAKER AT 202-224-3121 AND DEMAND OTHER USES. E-VERIFY COULD HAVE A MAJOR IMPACT, IN THE ILLEGAL INVASION OF OUR COUNTRY. CUT-OFF ALL BENEFITS. INSIST ON RESCINDING THE BIRTHRIGHT LAW, APPLICABLE TO ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT MOTHERS. WE NEED NO NEW AMNESTY. WE NEED AMENDMENTS TO THE 1986 LAW FOR ENFORCEMENT, NOT WEAKEN IT. E-VERIFY COULD SAVE BILLIONS OF DOLLARS THAT IS BEING PAID OUT TO ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS IN SANCTUARY CITIES AND STATES. IN ADDITION SAY--NO--TO FOREIGN NATIONALS BEING COUNTED IN THE 2010 CENSUS. GOOGLE-- NUMBERSUSA, JUDICIAL WATCH & CAPSWEB FOR FACTS ON YOUR DOLLARS, STATISTICS, OVERPOPULATION, FAILING INFRASTRUCTURE AND CORRUPTION IN WASHINGTON.

by: kristawilson27

09-25-2009 @ 8:29pm

I believe that god commanded us to take care of ourselves and our households first. That means, with so much unemployment, poverty and homelessness, we cannot take care of others at this time. There is a time when this will not be a problem. But, I don't think we should ignore the needs of the Americans here. As much as most people think Americans are lazy and hostile towards foreigners, you must note that among all nations we give the most charity, we have embraced the most people and tolerate the most. We must end the suffering and ease the pain of people that are less fortunate, but we must realize, as god has given up parameters and rules he still loves us. America has given enormously, but when you enter into the country shouldn't you enter legally, no one is turning people away if they wait in line and follow through the right channels. Even on the day of judgement when you enter into the gates of heaven how would you feel when you are asked, yes, you have helped others but your own house is in ruin. Away with you.

by: Brittanicus

09-25-2009 @ 8:47pm

E-verify could become a very significant immigration enforcement weapon, as it's shown to work extremely well? Opponents have used the courts in erroneous lawsuits as a delaying factor but failed to impress a Maryland federal judge. This application discloses unauthorized immigrants in the workplace, being continually modified in its operation as spreads into the business world. It now has been unleashed on government contractors and subcontractors to locate illegal foreign labor. We should reward those government public servants who have battled outside special interest groups for American workers. But denying elected office to those who tried to kill or weaken its capabilities. Americans should harass their politicians to enact E-Verify permanently and prepare its operational program offering many uses in the incessant law enforcement fight.

In credit practices it could determine a person's right to buy any vehicle, if in the United Statesillegally. It could also disrupt radical organizations like ACORN that was instrumental in assisting foreign nationals buying house mortgages, which had a major impact in the real estate collapse. E-Verify should also be installed in financial institutions, to stop fraudulent transactions using bogus SS # or IRS ITIN loan identification numbers. E-Verify could help emergency rooms identify illegal immigrants using forged documents and enable law enforcement to track the employer. That business should be forced to pay for the person's injury or treatment instead of the proverbial taxpayers. Schools, colleges could check new student admittances for their immigration status. The E-Verification identification system could accomplish numerous other extraction processes, in determining a person's right to government benefits. In addition, I'm for Health Reform and public option for some family members. Illegal immigrants should be exempt, except for emergency hospital access.

DON'T LET E-VERIFY EXPIRE ON SEPTEMBER 30? CALL YOUR LAWMAKER AT 202-224-3121 AND DEMAND OTHER USES. E-VERIFY COULD HAVE A MAJOR IMPACT, IN THE ILLEGAL INVASION OF OUR COUNTRY. CUT-OFF ALL BENEFITS. INSIST ON RESCINDING THE BIRTHRIGHT LAW, APPLICABLE TO ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT MOTHERS. WE NEED NO NEW AMNESTY. WE NEED AMENDMENTS TO THE 1986 LAW FOR ENFORCEMENT, NOT WEAKEN IT. E-VERIFY COULD SAVE BILLIONS OF DOLLARS THAT IS BEING PAID OUT TO ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS IN SANCTUARY CITIES AND STATES. IN ADDITION SAY--NO--TO FOREIGN NATIONALS BEING COUNTED IN THE 2010 CENSUS. GOOGLE-- NUMBERSUSA, JUDICIAL WATCH & CAPSWEB FOR FACTS ON YOUR DOLLARS, STATISTICS, OVERPOPULATION, FAILING INFRASTRUCTURE AND CORRUPTION IN WASHINGTON.

by: stevenskattebo

10-01-2009 @ 9:02pm

kristawilson repeats perhaps the most common myth in this whole debate: that the undocumented immigrants are cutting in line: "but when you enter into the country shouldn't you enter legally, no one is turning people away if they wait in line and follow through the right channels."

This is false. There is no line for the poor. If you are poor, U.S. immigration will not give you a visa. There are no "right channels" if you're poor. If you are poor, you will be turned away. The words on the Statue of Liberty are not true; our government discriminates (i.e. restricts immigration) against the poor.

by: scat

09-27-2009 @ 1:34am

I live in a very international community with large segments of our population form Somalia, Vietnam, Central America, Mexico, Canada, Russia,Iran, etc. I find it very invigorating and have noticed a couple of things. One, no one ever complains or tries to get deported anyone from Canada, Russia, Iran. Mostly it's about Latina's. One must leave opne the possibility of racism at play. Second, we have had a large latina population for generations and now all of a sudden we feel a need to deport people who have been living here, perhaps illegally, for decades. This is mostly mothers and grandmothers. Mothers who have relatively young children are being deported and the kids either have to stay here motherless or go with her. The kids are born in the country and thus citizens. It seems we have set some arbitrary rules of where one can live on this planet that are non-sensical and unjust.
Third, just how much harm do such "illegals" actually cause. Once they get up and on their feet, they go to school, get jobs, pay taxes, just like everyone else. Just like most of our ancestors did. And just like our ancestors, they become Americanized pretty quickly.

by: scat

09-27-2009 @ 1:34am

I live in a very international community with large segments of our population form Somalia, Vietnam, Central America, Mexico, Canada, Russia,Iran, etc. I find it very invigorating and have noticed a couple of things. One, no one ever complains or tries to get deported anyone from Canada, Russia, Iran. Mostly it's about Latina's. One must leave opne the possibility of racism at play. Second, we have had a large latina population for generations and now all of a sudden we feel a need to deport people who have been living here, perhaps illegally, for decades. This is mostly mothers and grandmothers. Mothers who have relatively young children are being deported and the kids either have to stay here motherless or go with her. The kids are born in the country and thus citizens. It seems we have set some arbitrary rules of where one can live on this planet that are non-sensical and unjust.
Third, just how much harm do such "illegals" actually cause. Once they get up and on their feet, they go to school, get jobs, pay taxes, just like everyone else. Just like most of our ancestors did. And just like our ancestors, they become Americanized pretty quickly.

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by: GlenPeterson

09-25-2009 @ 1:40pm

Even people who do not consider themselves "progressive" are finding that, when they become aware of the facts, comprehensive immigration reform is the right thing. We are working among people of faith and others in Southern California and are confronting the misconceptions with facts. Thanks to Sojourners for being a source of good information.

by: GlenPeterson

09-25-2009 @ 1:40pm

Even people who do not consider themselves "progressive" are finding that, when they become aware of the facts, comprehensive immigration reform is the right thing. We are working among people of faith and others in Southern California and are confronting the misconceptions with facts. Thanks to Sojourners for being a source of good information.

by: kristawilson27

09-25-2009 @ 8:29pm

I believe that god commanded us to take care of ourselves and our households first. That means, with so much unemployment, poverty and homelessness, we cannot take care of others at this time. There is a time when this will not be a problem. But, I don't think we should ignore the needs of the Americans here. As much as most people think Americans are lazy and hostile towards foreigners, you must note that among all nations we give the most charity, we have embraced the most people and tolerate the most. We must end the suffering and ease the pain of people that are less fortunate, but we must realize, as god has given up parameters and rules he still loves us. America has given enormously, but when you enter into the country shouldn't you enter legally, no one is turning people away if they wait in line and follow through the right channels. Even on the day of judgement when you enter into the gates of heaven how would you feel when you are asked, yes, you have helped others but your own house is in ruin. Away with you.

by: kristawilson27

09-25-2009 @ 8:29pm

I believe that god commanded us to take care of ourselves and our households first. That means, with so much unemployment, poverty and homelessness, we cannot take care of others at this time. There is a time when this will not be a problem. But, I don't think we should ignore the needs of the Americans here. As much as most people think Americans are lazy and hostile towards foreigners, you must note that among all nations we give the most charity, we have embraced the most people and tolerate the most. We must end the suffering and ease the pain of people that are less fortunate, but we must realize, as god has given up parameters and rules he still loves us. America has given enormously, but when you enter into the country shouldn't you enter legally, no one is turning people away if they wait in line and follow through the right channels. Even on the day of judgement when you enter into the gates of heaven how would you feel when you are asked, yes, you have helped others but your own house is in ruin. Away with you.

by: Brittanicus

09-25-2009 @ 8:47pm

E-verify could become a very significant immigration enforcement weapon, as it's shown to work extremely well? Opponents have used the courts in erroneous lawsuits as a delaying factor but failed to impress a Maryland federal judge. This application discloses unauthorized immigrants in the workplace, being continually modified in its operation as spreads into the business world. It now has been unleashed on government contractors and subcontractors to locate illegal foreign labor. We should reward those government public servants who have battled outside special interest groups for American workers. But denying elected office to those who tried to kill or weaken its capabilities. Americans should harass their politicians to enact E-Verify permanently and prepare its operational program offering many uses in the incessant law enforcement fight.

In credit practices it could determine a person's right to buy any vehicle, if in the United Statesillegally. It could also disrupt radical organizations like ACORN that was instrumental in assisting foreign nationals buying house mortgages, which had a major impact in the real estate collapse. E-Verify should also be installed in financial institutions, to stop fraudulent transactions using bogus SS # or IRS ITIN loan identification numbers. E-Verify could help emergency rooms identify illegal immigrants using forged documents and enable law enforcement to track the employer. That business should be forced to pay for the person's injury or treatment instead of the proverbial taxpayers. Schools, colleges could check new student admittances for their immigration status. The E-Verification identification system could accomplish numerous other extraction processes, in determining a person's right to government benefits. In addition, I'm for Health Reform and public option for some family members. Illegal immigrants should be exempt, except for emergency hospital access.

DON'T LET E-VERIFY EXPIRE ON SEPTEMBER 30? CALL YOUR LAWMAKER AT 202-224-3121 AND DEMAND OTHER USES. E-VERIFY COULD HAVE A MAJOR IMPACT, IN THE ILLEGAL INVASION OF OUR COUNTRY. CUT-OFF ALL BENEFITS. INSIST ON RESCINDING THE BIRTHRIGHT LAW, APPLICABLE TO ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT MOTHERS. WE NEED NO NEW AMNESTY. WE NEED AMENDMENTS TO THE 1986 LAW FOR ENFORCEMENT, NOT WEAKEN IT. E-VERIFY COULD SAVE BILLIONS OF DOLLARS THAT IS BEING PAID OUT TO ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS IN SANCTUARY CITIES AND STATES. IN ADDITION SAY--NO--TO FOREIGN NATIONALS BEING COUNTED IN THE 2010 CENSUS. GOOGLE-- NUMBERSUSA, JUDICIAL WATCH & CAPSWEB FOR FACTS ON YOUR DOLLARS, STATISTICS, OVERPOPULATION, FAILING INFRASTRUCTURE AND CORRUPTION IN WASHINGTON.

by: Brittanicus

09-25-2009 @ 8:47pm

E-verify could become a very significant immigration enforcement weapon, as it's shown to work extremely well? Opponents have used the courts in erroneous lawsuits as a delaying factor but failed to impress a Maryland federal judge. This application discloses unauthorized immigrants in the workplace, being continually modified in its operation as spreads into the business world. It now has been unleashed on government contractors and subcontractors to locate illegal foreign labor. We should reward those government public servants who have battled outside special interest groups for American workers. But denying elected office to those who tried to kill or weaken its capabilities. Americans should harass their politicians to enact E-Verify permanently and prepare its operational program offering many uses in the incessant law enforcement fight.

In credit practices it could determine a person's right to buy any vehicle, if in the United Statesillegally. It could also disrupt radical organizations like ACORN that was instrumental in assisting foreign nationals buying house mortgages, which had a major impact in the real estate collapse. E-Verify should also be installed in financial institutions, to stop fraudulent transactions using bogus SS # or IRS ITIN loan identification numbers. E-Verify could help emergency rooms identify illegal immigrants using forged documents and enable law enforcement to track the employer. That business should be forced to pay for the person's injury or treatment instead of the proverbial taxpayers. Schools, colleges could check new student admittances for their immigration status. The E-Verification identification system could accomplish numerous other extraction processes, in determining a person's right to government benefits. In addition, I'm for Health Reform and public option for some family members. Illegal immigrants should be exempt, except for emergency hospital access.

DON'T LET E-VERIFY EXPIRE ON SEPTEMBER 30? CALL YOUR LAWMAKER AT 202-224-3121 AND DEMAND OTHER USES. E-VERIFY COULD HAVE A MAJOR IMPACT, IN THE ILLEGAL INVASION OF OUR COUNTRY. CUT-OFF ALL BENEFITS. INSIST ON RESCINDING THE BIRTHRIGHT LAW, APPLICABLE TO ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT MOTHERS. WE NEED NO NEW AMNESTY. WE NEED AMENDMENTS TO THE 1986 LAW FOR ENFORCEMENT, NOT WEAKEN IT. E-VERIFY COULD SAVE BILLIONS OF DOLLARS THAT IS BEING PAID OUT TO ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS IN SANCTUARY CITIES AND STATES. IN ADDITION SAY--NO--TO FOREIGN NATIONALS BEING COUNTED IN THE 2010 CENSUS. GOOGLE-- NUMBERSUSA, JUDICIAL WATCH & CAPSWEB FOR FACTS ON YOUR DOLLARS, STATISTICS, OVERPOPULATION, FAILING INFRASTRUCTURE AND CORRUPTION IN WASHINGTON.

by: scat

09-27-2009 @ 1:34am

I live in a very international community with large segments of our population form Somalia, Vietnam, Central America, Mexico, Canada, Russia,Iran, etc. I find it very invigorating and have noticed a couple of things. One, no one ever complains or tries to get deported anyone from Canada, Russia, Iran. Mostly it's about Latina's. One must leave opne the possibility of racism at play. Second, we have had a large latina population for generations and now all of a sudden we feel a need to deport people who have been living here, perhaps illegally, for decades. This is mostly mothers and grandmothers. Mothers who have relatively young children are being deported and the kids either have to stay here motherless or go with her. The kids are born in the country and thus citizens. It seems we have set some arbitrary rules of where one can live on this planet that are non-sensical and unjust.
Third, just how much harm do such "illegals" actually cause. Once they get up and on their feet, they go to school, get jobs, pay taxes, just like everyone else. Just like most of our ancestors did. And just like our ancestors, they become Americanized pretty quickly.

by: scat

09-27-2009 @ 1:34am

I live in a very international community with large segments of our population form Somalia, Vietnam, Central America, Mexico, Canada, Russia,Iran, etc. I find it very invigorating and have noticed a couple of things. One, no one ever complains or tries to get deported anyone from Canada, Russia, Iran. Mostly it's about Latina's. One must leave opne the possibility of racism at play. Second, we have had a large latina population for generations and now all of a sudden we feel a need to deport people who have been living here, perhaps illegally, for decades. This is mostly mothers and grandmothers. Mothers who have relatively young children are being deported and the kids either have to stay here motherless or go with her. The kids are born in the country and thus citizens. It seems we have set some arbitrary rules of where one can live on this planet that are non-sensical and unjust.
Third, just how much harm do such "illegals" actually cause. Once they get up and on their feet, they go to school, get jobs, pay taxes, just like everyone else. Just like most of our ancestors did. And just like our ancestors, they become Americanized pretty quickly.

by: stevenskattebo

10-01-2009 @ 7:02pm

kristawilson repeats perhaps the most common myth in this whole debate: that the undocumented immigrants are cutting in line: "but when you enter into the country shouldn't you enter legally, no one is turning people away if they wait in line and follow through the right channels."

This is false. There is no line for the poor. If you are poor, U.S. immigration will not give you a visa. There are no "right channels" if you're poor. If you are poor, you will be turned away. The words on the Statue of Liberty are not true; our government discriminates (i.e. restricts immigration) against the poor.

by: stevenskattebo

10-01-2009 @ 7:02pm

kristawilson repeats perhaps the most common myth in this whole debate: that the undocumented immigrants are cutting in line: "but when you enter into the country shouldn't you enter legally, no one is turning people away if they wait in line and follow through the right channels."

This is false. There is no line for the poor. If you are poor, U.S. immigration will not give you a visa. There are no "right channels" if you're poor. If you are poor, you will be turned away. The words on the Statue of Liberty are not true; our government discriminates (i.e. restricts immigration) against the poor.

by: stevenskattebo

10-01-2009 @ 9:02pm

kristawilson repeats perhaps the most common myth in this whole debate: that the undocumented immigrants are cutting in line: "but when you enter into the country shouldn't you enter legally, no one is turning people away if they wait in line and follow through the right channels."

This is false. There is no line for the poor. If you are poor, U.S. immigration will not give you a visa. There are no "right channels" if you're poor. If you are poor, you will be turned away. The words on the Statue of Liberty are not true; our government discriminates (i.e. restricts immigration) against the poor.

by: stevenskattebo

10-01-2009 @ 9:02pm

kristawilson repeats perhaps the most common myth in this whole debate: that the undocumented immigrants are cutting in line: "but when you enter into the country shouldn't you enter legally, no one is turning people away if they wait in line and follow through the right channels."

This is false. There is no line for the poor. If you are poor, U.S. immigration will not give you a visa. There are no "right channels" if you're poor. If you are poor, you will be turned away. The words on the Statue of Liberty are not true; our government discriminates (i.e. restricts immigration) against the poor.