The July 6 Herald editorial, “Candidates must keep immigration issue alive,” stated, “A meaningful debate of immigration reform must reflect the reality that strident positions will only help cement the unacceptable status quo.” I was at the meeting cited by the Herald Editorial Board and while I agree that some of Jim Gilchrist’s statements were over the top, the editors are ignoring many logical and intelligent points made during the meeting by the speakers.

While I was in the meeting, an organization called “La Raza” loudly picketed outside and made it clear that they were there to disrupt rather than to engage in intelligent dialogue (the meeting was open to them as well). Those outside obviously weren’t interested in the give and take of intelligent discourse. Why didn’t the editors criticize the “strident” position of this organization whose very name means “The Race” and is dedicated to the “reconquest” of North America via illegal immigration?

I believe we are and must always be a nation of laws and if laws are selectively enforced it is the beginning of the corruption of our system.

I believe that our borders must be secured before any discourse on the status of the 12 million illegal aliens now here can begin.

I believe that the tens of thousands of decent people from Africa, Serbia, China, etc., and yes, Mexico, that are following the proper channels to emigrate to our great country should not have their hearts broken and their chances dashed as millions who arrive here by stealth literally steal their place in line.

Beware of those who are quick to call others “racist” or “extremist” while refusing to engage in intelligent discussion to resolve the issues of the day. They are the bane of democracy.

David Meyering

Arlington