Arizona Spirit

Sat, Jul 10, 2010 : 9:56 a.m.

David Cahill: your link does work: http://www.cbsnews.com/htdocs/pdf/immigration_complaint.pdf?tag=contentMain;contentBody Thank you. Possible racial profiling is in the brief in order to delay the law from going into effect.

Arizona Spirit

Sat, Jul 10, 2010 : 9:39 a.m.

"This law encourages racial profiling and may violate Fourteenth Amendment guarantees of due process and equal protection for U.S. citizens, legal residents and visitors who are detained for suspicion of being in the country unlawfully," reads the resolution sponsored by Sabra Briere and Sandi Smith, both Democrats from the 1st Ward. The 14th amendment was for Black Americans. http://www.14thamendment.us/birthright_citizenship/original_intent.html Post-Civil War reforms focused on injustices to African Americans. The 14th Amendment was ratified in 1868 to protect the rights of native-born Black Americans, whose rights were being denied as recently-freed slaves. It was written in a manner so as to prevent state governments from ever denying citizenship to blacks born in the United States. But in 1868, the United States had no formal immigration policy, and the authors therefore saw no need to address immigration explicitly in the amendment. In 1866, Senator Jacob Howard clearly spelled out the intent of the 14th Amendment by stating:

InsideTheHall

Thu, Jul 8, 2010 : 4:49 a.m.

Lost in the debate is that the drug war is raging just across the border from California to texas. Even the state department has issued travel advisories. Perhaps the A2 City Council should take a field trip to Nuevo Laredo just across the border from Laredo, TX where the warring drug cartels have daily gun battles in the streets. This is why we need a secure border and less political pontificating by Obama and the Ann Arbor City Council. Just do your jobs this isn't rocket science. Failure to act will result in the war moving North into US territory.

Arizona Spirit

Wed, Jul 7, 2010 : 11:41 p.m.

Dear Ann Arbor City Council, First I would suggest that you read the laws Arizona welcomes immigrants, legal immigrants. Do it the right way thru the front door. http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/49leg/2r/bills/sb1070h.pdf ( less than 20 pages ) http://www.mexicanlaws.com/ (A lot to read) You have no rights when you go to their country. and The Goverments imagration bill http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=110_cong_bills&docid=f:s1348pcs.txt.pdf (A lot to read) 700+ pages Arizona welcomes immigrants, legal immigrants. Do it the right way thru the front door. The Dark Side Of Illegal Immigration Facts, Figures And Statistics On Illegal Immigration http://www.usillegalaliens.com/ And lastly and most important: 7/10 officer murdered This is why we in Arizona needs SB1070: All were killed by ILLEGALS. 1.Officer Kenneth Collins, 33, Phoenix Police Department Murdered May 27, 1988 2.Nick Erfle Age: 33 Sept. 18, 2007 3.Ranger Kriss Eggle, 28, National Park Service Murdered, August 9, 2002 4.Officer Marc Atkinson, 28 Phoenix Police Department Murdered March 28, 1999 5.Alexander Kirpnick, 27, United States Border Patrol Murdered June 3, 1998 6.Agent Richard Fass, 37, United States Drug Enforcement Agency Murdered June 30, 1994 7.Police Officer Shane Cory Figueroa Shane Figueroa, 25 How many more Police Need to die from ILLEGALS!!!!

daveM

Wed, Jul 7, 2010 : 9:58 p.m.

As Ann Arbor ismy birth city, I'm often embarrassewd by the asinine issues that seem to be be so vital to the city so called leadership! Come on liberals quit pontificating on issues inwhich you you lack any semblence of understanding. Another feel good moment; a question of slime over substance. Move to the Rizona border, and after you've lived there 90 days or so report back your findings. Your response might have a more conservative quality.

James

Wed, Jul 7, 2010 : 5:56 p.m.

We the People of the United States (who are they refering to?), in Order to form a more perfect Union,(Who's union?) establish Justice(for who?), insure domestic Tranquility (Domestic?), provide for the common defence (against who?), promote the general Welfare (whos' welfare), and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity (Oh ours?), do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

santino

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 10:22 p.m.

What the hell is wrong with A2 city council. What a waste of time. Lets focus on issues in this town. Geez! I have a good idea. Why don't all council members move to Arizona since they seem to be so worried about what is going on there.

John Q

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 8:53 p.m.

"I read over 100 postings and not one person sited any part of the AZ law that allows racial profiling." By this logic, no police officer ever engages in racial profiling as none of the standard laws are written in a racially-specific way. Or are we supposed to believe that no one ever gets profiled based on race? As for the claim that the lack of a drivers license should lead to a check on citizenship, head on down to the district court to see how many people get ticketed every year for having no ID or an invalid ID. We're going to ship all those people off to the Feds to have their citizenship scrutinized. In the real world, what happens is that the people who can't speak English well or have a Hispanic name get their citizenship questioned. White folks? They get a ticket and a date in court.

Gorc

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 8:28 p.m.

189 posted comments....if this was a competitive debating contest....sbbuilder would be victorious. I read over 100 postings and not one person sited any part of the AZ law that allows racial profiling.

rod fair

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 7:47 p.m.

why dont they worry about their own city and mind their own business,arizona passed a good law,ther is already hundreds of thousands of illegal immigrants in the us and the law can help catch some of these criminals,good for arizona

Lisa Starrfield

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 7:37 p.m.

Edward's Ghost, I suspect that the most common way someone will come to suspect an individual is an illegal immigrant is failure to produce legitimate ID. Remember that the Arizona law requires officers to check on immigration status of those they suspect of being here illegally who are already being stopped for some reason. The most common reason any individual is stopped is a traffic violation. Failure to produce a valid driver's license would be the first red flag as ALL drivers are required to carry theirs at all time. Anyone with a valid AZ license is presumed to be here legally.

bedrog

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 7:36 p.m.

@ david...well the dissenter will get reelected at least. moderators... a new post vote thread should be opened as this one is already way too long

sbbuilder

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 7:33 p.m.

John Q For starters, there are some very simple things an Officer can ask, such as: "May I see your drivers license?" 'Golly, don't have one.' "Do you know any of the 14 people in this van?" 'Sorry, don't know.' So far, I don't see any lurch to a police state. At that point, the Officer is obligated to pursue the matter further. Again, I urge you to watch the training video. There is some very good stuff there. (And, I stick by my assertion that you haven't read a cotton pickin' thing.) Can anybody point us to the specific passages that the City Council objects to? Or, is this just a vague painting-with-a-broad-brush sort of objection?

David Cahill

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 7:15 p.m.

City Council just adopted the resolution, with only one dissenting vote.

John Q

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 6:49 p.m.

"Your concerns are answered in sb1070, but, since you didn't know that, I must assume you are one of those who haven't read it." Nice job jumping a couple steps there. A person is stopped and questioned by a law enforcement officer. Like most Americans, they're not carrying any kind of ID that proves their citizenship. Then what happens? On what basis does the officer question their citizenship status? On what basis does the officer determine their citizenship status? As a US citizen, I can be hauled down to the local police station, detained and forced to prove my identity and my status as a US citizen? Or worse, I get handed over to immigration officials? Nice police state you want to live in. No thanks!

sbbuilder

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 6:38 p.m.

John Q: Your concerns are answered in sb1070, but, since you didn't know that, I must assume you are one of those who haven't read it. To whit: THE PERSON'S IMMIGRATION STATUS SHALL BE VERIFIED WITH THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT PURSUANT TO 8 UNITED STATES CODE SECTION 1373(c). Further: B. IN THE ENFORCEMENT OF THIS SECTION, THE FINAL DETERMINATION OF AN ALIEN'S IMMIGRATION STATUS SHALL BE DETERMINED BY EITHER: 1. A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER WHO IS AUTHORIZED BY THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT TO VERIFY OR ASCERTAIN AN ALIEN'S IMMIGRATION STATUS. 2. A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER OR AGENCY COMMUNICATING WITH THE UNITED STATES IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT OR THE UNITED STATES BORDER PROTECTION PURSUANT TO 8 UNITED STATES CODE SECTION 1373(c). So, you see, this is done hand in hand with the Federal Government, using Federal law, and using US Immigration and Customs officials. What does 8 sect 1373(c) state? Well, (c) Obligation to respond to inquiries The Immigration and Naturalization Service shall respond to an inquiry by a Federal, State, or local government agency, seeking to verify or ascertain the citizenship or immigration status of any individual within the jurisdiction of the agency for any purpose authorized by law, by providing the requested verification or status information. Basically, what Arizona is doing is saying to the Fed's: "Will you please enforce the laws already on the books? If you don't, or are unwilling, we will be forced to take the matter into our hands for our survival." The Fed's are countering now by saying that Arizona has no business sticking their noses in the Fed's business. I seriously wonder if Council members have read Arizona's immigration law. I seriously wonder how many of the posters have done likewise. Meantime, how is this nefarious resolution benefitting the citizens of Ann Arbor?

bedrog

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 5:50 p.m.

demistify..you're absolutely correct in your history, but whatta ya gonna do? to some ( one actually) anyone who isn't "blindingly white" ( and therefore automatically evil) is a virtuous person of color, with no distictions made as to actual ethnicity,real history, geography, or cultural practice. i call that 'racist', 'patronizing' and paternalistic-colonialist to the extreme. although this post might get deleted as 'personal attack" ( but to avoid that i deliberately left out 'just plain stupid'), it's still true as true can be,and a reason the city council would be crazy...whoops, sorry, 'ill advised'.. to open further it's doors/deliberations to suchlike.. such a motion...i.e. no grandstanding on non-local issues, period--should be made at one of their meetings.

demistify

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 5:09 p.m.

Blaine Coleman --- It is true that Mexicans at times laid claim to the Southwest, but they never succeeded in conquering it. They were repeatedly defeated and overrun by the Comanches and the Apaches, and few stuck it out. The Mexican government encouraged gringos like Austin to settle in Texas because no Mexicans would brave the Comanches. It is only after the US Army subdued the tribes in the late 19th century that substantial numbers of Mexicans moved to the Southwest. The Native Americans still consider the Mexicans to be interlopers. And, Blaine, I never met a Mexican who spoke Arabic.

Ian

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 4:43 p.m.

John Q, Please compare apples to apples.

bedrog

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 4:42 p.m.

demistify...excellent and to the point blaine...not so much P.s. re the above,there are english speakers who should be closely monitered too..

John Q

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 4:28 p.m.

"Should Mexicans get preferential treatment?????" Cubans get preferential treatment no matter how they arrive in the US? Have you been protesting against that?

demistify

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 4:05 p.m.

David Cahill --- I fully agree with you that federal preemption of immigration policy makes sense. Now all you need to do is convince your wife (Sabra Briere) that preemption of immigration policy by the Ann Arbor City Council does not.

Ian

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 4 p.m.

Blaine, I am an immigrant. How is it racist to want to enforce the laws against ILLEGAL immigration?????? I immigrated to this country legally and so should all foreigners. Should Mexicans get preferential treatment????? Calling people racist is a CHEAP shot and cowardly.

Esrold Blinty

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 3:53 p.m.

It is important that the City Counsel's consideration of this resolution is based upon an airing of facts. Many of the comments have what I believe to be errors which, if believed by the City Counsel, could result in a poor decision on their part. For sources of these facts please see my end note. Here are some of those errors (most paraphrased) which the Counsel should avoid... "Arizona doesn't care what we think." Fact, no state is an island. AZ's monetary well being depends upon all of the other states to varying degrees. If it doesn't care what we think, it should. "This issue is a waste of time for the A2 City Council." Fact, Michigan is facing a similar legislation, public debate and the airing of facts is an important part of our preparation. It is alright to use the term "Illegals" or "Illegal Aliens" to describe people who entered this country without proper documentation, permission, or who overstayed their properly attained visas. Fact: most U.S. citizens have broken a law at some time or other in their life: perhaps they drove above the speed limit, or smoked a cigarette when they were still a minor, etc. I think they would not want to be called a "criminal" or "illegal citizen" for the rest of their life for such behavior, because that implies that the rest of their life was devoted to criminal behavior. The same stigmatization happens when we use the term "illegal alien" or "illegals" (not for the use of the term "alien" by the way) and if used knowing these facts, it is to my thinking, evidence of racism. Foreign born workers are going to overwhelm our workforce if we don't do something to reduce their inflows. Fact: Foreign born workers currently constitute less than 2.5% of our states labor force. Foreign born Hispanics are pouring into the U.S. and will soon overwhelm our "native born" population. Fact: foreign born Hispanics comprise about 1.34% of the Detroit population as of the last period surveyed (2005- 2007) "Foreign born workers cost us jobs." Fact: the elimination of all foreign born workers would result in 8.1 million jobs LOST! "Undocumented aliens cost us huge amounts because they use our resources and don't pay taxes." Fact: "Undocumented immigrants have paid hundreds of billions of dollars in taxes to date, and are not eligible for most tax benefits (such as Social Security benefits, Medicare, Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, federal housing programs, food stamps, Supplemental Security Income, unemployment insurance, the EITC and the Economic Stimulus Tax Credit) that are available to our working poor citizens." The fact is that on balance, undocumented aliens provide the U.S. with a positive cash flow. They do that by both paying taxes, creating businesses in the American entrepreneurial tradition, and hiring workers. "All Arizona did was mirror the federal law." Facts: All of the following are not in federal law but are in the Arizona: makes is a crime for an undocumented immigrant to apply for a job, or to solicit work publicly. Also it makes it a misdemeanor for a citizen driving a vehicle to stop to hire anyone if that "impedes" traffic. And, the new Arizona law make it possible for citizens to sue officials or agencies whose policies interfere with vigorous enforcement of federal immigration law. "Maybe we could vote to send City council to Arizone to enjoy the crime wave being committed by the illegals, especially to Pheonix?" Fact: While Phoenix may have a high crime rate (I don't know) it is probably due to other causes. Why do I say this? > Numerous studies by independent researchers and government commissions over the past 100 years repeatedly and consistently have found that, in fact, immigrants are less likely to commit crimes or to be behind bars than are the native-born. This is true for the nation as a whole, as well as for cities with large immigrant populations such as Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, and Miami, and cities along the U.S.-Mexico border such as San Diego and El Paso. (source The El Paso Miracle) "The Arizona law doesn't allow for racial profiling." Fact: The amended law allows police to consider "race, color or national origin" when deciding whether to ask somebody for proof of citizenship. One person who is in favor of the new Arizona law wrote "anyone in the US illegally should be escorted to the border and sent to their point of origin." Fact: the Arizona law would prevent deportations since Arizona doesn't have the authority to deport (only the federal government has that)! Instead it will have to imprison those arrested, much to the detriment of their state budget. "My Great Grand Parent imegrated here several genrations ago and I am glad they did. However a few points...!. They came here legally. They waited in line and applied for citizenship like anyone else." Fact: not "anyone else," up until 1875 the U.S. had no immigration laws, so all who came here prior to that time (between 400,000 and 1 million) did so without any documentation. From what I can find it appears that there weren't any quotas until 1921's Emergency Quota Act. Also, it should be noted that even after the first immigration laws our borders on all sides have been fairly or very porous to immigration from countries worldwide. Most families probably have some ancestors who weren't documented. "Democrats want to win elections by giving 'illegals' amnesty and increasing immigration." Fact: In 1990, President H.W. Bush (Republican) signed the Immigration Act of 1990, which increased legal immigration to the United States by 40%. You'll recall that right after that we had one of the most prosperous 10 years in the history of the U.S. How did that happen if immigrants are bad for the economy??? "As of 1:40PM today, 1246 people in Ann Arbor and surrounding communities have voted in A2.com's poll asking "Do you support the Ann Arbor City Council resolution opposing Arizona's immigration law?" 73% OPPOSE THIS RESOLUTION!" Fact: we have no idea how many people voted. What we do (probably) know is that a button was pressed 1246 times. Can you press a button twice, or hundreds of times? People who know how to do simple things like block their browser cookies and LSOs, or restart their browsers and force-reload their pages can vote many times in an on-line poll. The comments are far more revealing of the thoughts and feelings of the small segment of the populace that have participated. Clearly there is much heat. I hope that I have brought a little light. NOTE: rather than taking up space to attribute the quotes I use as facts I will simply suggest you copy them into Google and do a search using quotes, you'll probably find my sources quickly enough. Eventually I'll try to put them up on the WICIR.com web site on the "Immigration Facts" page.

Ian

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 3:53 p.m.

You can see why Arizona has taken the matter into their own hands. Feds have given parts of Arizona over to the Mexican drug cartels. Why doesn't Obama send troops to evict the drug cartels out of Arizona national parks before asking Arizona to repeal their anti-illegal immigration law? This is insane. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9HzD3GPpCqI

David Cahill

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 3:44 p.m.

Here is (I hope) a link to the text of the lawsuit. http://www.cbsnews.com/htdocs/pdf/immigration_complaint.pdf?tag=contentMain;contentBody

Ian

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 3:38 p.m.

Just as the conservative were fooled, manipulated and used by the Bush admin. to destroy this country, the progressives are being fooled, manipulated and used by the Obama admin. to continue all the destructive policies that are ruining this country. All Arizona is doing is to enforce the laws that are already on the books. States should step in when the feds fail to enforce the laws and other states and cities should stay out of the business of other states. I really do not think AA city would appreciate Denver telling us what to do. AA city council, please spend you time and money on something relevant to our city and keep your opinions out of other state's policies that are strongly supported by their own residents.

bedrog

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 3:30 p.m.

atticus..re the constitution. read it! like it!... but it's a living document, mostly framed by folks who weren't aware of al qaida, methamphetamines, and a closed 'frontier' that could no longer infinitely absorb new people without questions being raised. and as to the first amendment, if tom jefferson had known a particular poster here like,say, the synagogue and city council does, that amendment might have gone a somewhat different way. the aclu is a little slow on such catch-up. that's why i quit.

grye

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 3:17 p.m.

What a wonderful city council we have. So concerned about what is going on in every other place but Ann Arbor. Let issues in Ann Arbor go to hell in a hand basket and address issues that have not affect on the local citizens or economy. Why is it so important to spend time addressing illegals in Arizona, the Iraq war, etc. when there are sufficient problems with our economy, city budget, and parks that are overrun with weeds? Focus on what is important. When all our problems are solved, then fix the rest of the world.

bedrog

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 3:16 p.m.

blaine coleman keeps referring to blindingly white council people..so much so that you need sunglasses to encounter them,according to him... isnt that sort of racist and profile-y( aside from untrue)?how would that sound if the color cited was at the opposite end of the light spectrum? isnt that personal abuse that warrants moderation??? also..to all the legal experts here:just out of curiosity, what are current policies regarding dueling??

Tom Teague

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 3:05 p.m.

Adding to what David Cahill stated, the Justice Department lawsuit will be fought on narrower ground than whether Joe Arpaio has probable cause to ask for proof of citizenship. Instead, it may depend on whether any state can assume the power of determining who is in the United States legally. In other words, the US Government is given sole power to decide who can and can't enter the country legally, not local police. Article 1, Section 8 gives the Federal Government the power to establish a "uniform Rule of Naturalization." That has been held by the Supreme Court to cover the question of immigration; see the ruling for "Hampton v Mow Sun Wong," for example.

abc

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 3:03 p.m.

Arizonas law should be challenged by the federal government, not the City of Ann Arbors Council. It is the height of arrogance for the council to think that they have been empowered to think this through for their electorate and then communicate that to the federal government as if the electorate supports such a resolution and wishes to communicate with Arizona and the federal government with a city council resolution. Those of us with strong feelings about an issue, we are not charged with overseeing, know exactly where to write to make our feelings known, at the state or federal levels, and many of us have taken advantage of these avenues. Council members are also free to take advantage of these channels and can even add a little weight by signing their correspondence as government representatives of Ann Arbor. The council was entrusted to manage and deliberate for its electorate on local and regional issues; issues that affect us, not to weigh in on the dealings of any other State or state, especially when that issue does not directly affect their electorate. When running for office the candidates were not asked about their stances on national and international politics. Regardless of whether the Arizona State Bill is right or wrong, it is hubris to think that Ann Arbors council was elected to champion this kind of cause. The very logical conclusion to this kind of resolution is a city council offering their take on zoning laws in Dallas that may or may not contribute to sprawl, the negative effects of sugar cane farming on the Everglades, the pros and cons of drug laws in the Netherlands, outrage over gum chewing laws in Singapore, whether the Armenian Genocide really happened, and so no There is much pressing business here. You insult your electorate and waste our money by pursuing this issue.

Ryan J. Stanton

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 3:03 p.m.

USA Today reports: U.S. sues to block Arizona immigration law http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2010-07-06-arizona-immigration_N.htm

John Q

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 3:02 p.m.

"The point here, is that an existing law must have been infringed upon prior to any further action. So, somebody must have run a red light, or some such thing, and AT THAT POINT, the law states that a reasonable attempt should be made to determine the immigration status. Who hasn't been pulled over and then asked for ID?" Last time I checked, my ID says nothing about my status as a US citizen. I show the police my ID. Now how do they determine my immigration status? I sure as heck don't carry around my birth certificate to prove my legal status. Do you?

nicole

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 2:43 p.m.

What is the big deal. If you're stopped, provide ID. If you are a citizen then no problem. If you're here illegally then leave and come back the legal way like so many immigrants before you. Why do liberals have such a problem with requiring people to enter the country legally! Do we not have a right to protect our country and it's citizens? Don't break our laws as the first thing you do entering our country. Come here legally and we'll welcome you with open arms. Immigration needs to be done in an orderly way over years, so people can assimilate into US culture. Learn our language, our culture, customs and bring some of your own too. It's our country. We have a right to protect it against a small element that wants to destroy us.

MjC

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 2:41 p.m.

I elect city council members to represent me on government activities related to the CITY of Ann Arbor. If they want to make a political statement about an issue not related to A2, then do what the rest of us do. Facebook, Twitter, or write a letter to the editor of the paper!

sbbuilder

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 2:29 p.m.

Some further information: Here is a link to the new Arizona training video specifically designed to give law enforcement solid parameters and guidlines to use when enforcing sb1070, with emphasis on not using racial profiling: http://www.azpost.state.az.us/SB1070infocenter.htm You can download/view the videos yourself. There are handouts available to print as well. By the way, over 2/3rds of the Arizona law has to do with employment/employers. It places a heavy burden on those who knowingly hire illegal aliens. To balance this section, it also speaks in great detail about entrapment by law enforcement. As an employer here in Ann Arbor, I've been completely inflexible with any trades that hire illegals. Those businesses will never share a job site with others that follow the law.

Macabre Sunset

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 2:27 p.m.

This pending federal suit against Arizona seems rather like falling into an offside trap in soccer (the analogy inspired by this afternoon's semifinal match). As soon as the feds stop this law, Arizona will turn around and sue our government for billions due to them not enforcing the federal law. I'm guessing this was the planned end-game from the beginning. The pro-illegal immigration crowd should be careful for what it wishes for. This Tenth Amendment case will wind up costing us all an awful lot of money we don't have right now.

Atticus F.

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 2 p.m.

Well bedrog, with all of the reading you do, maybe you should brush up on the US Constitution...It was written to protect the rights of everybody (including minorities).

bedrog

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 1:56 p.m.

atticus...i choose not to get my information/philosophies from tom cruise movies... 2 years on the pak/afghan/iran frontiers and 40 years of related reading inform one branch of my concerns, while a good deal of time spent in the southwest...and again alot of reading..does for the other. but as to popular culture,re the latter, the AMC series "breaking bad' is worth a look.

sbbuilder

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 1:51 p.m.

I'm still waiting for those who oppose Arizona Immigration Law sb1070 to site the specific passage(s) they have a problem with. I'm beginning to think that the vast majority of those people actually haven't read the law. Shame shame. ghost: I believe the passage you referred to was: B. FOR ANY LAWFUL CONTACT MADE BY A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICIAL OR AGENCY OF THIS STATE OR A COUNTY, CITY, TOWN OR OTHER POLITICAL SUBDIVISION OF THIS STATE WHERE REASONABLE SUSPICION EXISTS THAT THE PERSON IS AN ALIEN WHO IS UNLAWFULLY PRESENT IN THE UNITED STATES, A REASONABLE ATTEMPT SHALL BE MADE, WHEN PRACTICABLE, TO DETERMINE THE IMMIGRATION STATUS OF THE PERSON. (Sorry about the all caps, but that is how the original document was published.) The point here, is that an existing law must have been infringed upon prior to any further action. So, somebody must have run a red light, or some such thing, and AT THAT POINT, the law states that a reasonable attempt should be made to determine the immigration status. Who hasn't been pulled over and then asked for ID? Further, the first article states: A. NO OFFICIAL OR AGENCY OF THIS STATE OR A COUNTY, CITY, TOWN OR OTHER POLITICAL SUBDIVISION OF THIS STATE MAY ADOPT A POLICY THAT LIMITS OR RESTRICTS THE ENFORCEMENT OF FEDERAL IMMIGRATION LAWS TO LESS THAN THE FULL EXTENT PERMITTED BY FEDERAL LAW. So, rest easy, folks. This law starts off by affirming Federal Law, and, indeed, requires law enforcement to enforce existing law. Last time: Quote the passages that are so heinous to you!

Awakened

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 1:51 p.m.

Thanks for pointing those documents out, Ed. The Gasden purchase marks the current border between Mexico and the US. Mexico SOLD it to the US for $10 million ($241 billion in today's dollars.) Also note the "Thornton Affair" which initiated the war. After refusing to speak to American Envoy John Slidell, who had been sent to Mexico City to negotiate with Mexico about the US/Mexican border, the Mexican Government sent 5200 Mexican troops across the Rio Grande where they attacked a US millitary patrol 20 miles north of Brownsville. Captain Thornton was leading a troop of 70 US Dragoons when attacked by about 2000 Mexican troops. This battle occurred on April 25 and 26th 1846. 16 US troops were killed and 5 wounded. 49 were captured, taken to Mexico and thrown in prison. It seems clear that Mexico was trying to engineer an incident to get foreign support to take Texas back. Unfortunately, for Mexico one US trooper escaped to report the attack. President Polk noting that "American blood has been shed on American soil" requested Congress declare war. They did so on May 13, 1846. The war ended with the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo on February 2, 1848. In this Mexico ceded most of what is now the southwest of the United States. Both the US and Mexican Governments ratified the treaty.

Atticus F.

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 1:45 p.m.

bedrog, we must not let hysteria over a percieved threat or danger, be used as an excuse to take away peoples constitutional rights. Ever seen the movie Minority Report?

David Cahill

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 1:24 p.m.

National media reports say that the Justice Department will be filing suit later today against Arizona to stop enforcement of its law. The basis will be "federal pre-emption": that is, the states have no business enforcing federal immigration law. I hope AnnArbor.com will provide a link to the complaint once it's filed.

bedrog

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 1:22 p.m.

atticus...although i rarely agree with him,mike from saline is correct in his above analogy... and in the age in which we sadly live 'profiling', when competently done, is an inconvenience to the innocent... while NOT profiling,in some form or other, can be a death sentence to even more innocents.

Atticus F.

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 1:01 p.m.

Mike from Saline, offering minorities equal opportunity is not racial profiling. However, pulling someone over and assuming they are involved in criminal activity based soley on the color of their skin, is racial profiling.

mike from saline

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 12:54 p.m.

After decades of not only tolerating, but applauding racial profiling, in regards to The University of Michigan's admissions policies, the A2 City Council is considering wagging their finger at the citizens of Arizona? The hypocracy is realy quite breathtaking, don't ya think?

Atticus F.

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 12:50 p.m.

Hooray ACLU!!! And hooray to all of the council members who support this resolution!!!! This is just one reason I'm an ACLU member, along with all of the other important work they do. Also, as a constituent of Steve Kunselman, I encourage him to support this resolution as well. And I encourage others to Join the ACLU.

AlwaysLate

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 12:48 p.m.

I'll bet A2.com will not explore why 73% of poll participants are voting no! Gotta keep the left wing radicals happy you know!

AlwaysLate

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 12:44 p.m.

As of 1:40PM today, 1246 people in Ann Arbor and surrounding communities have voted in A2.com's poll asking "Do you support the Ann Arbor City Council resolution opposing Arizona's immigration law?" 73% OPPOSE THIS RESOLUTION! Doesn't this tell you how out of touch Sabra and her gang are with real Americans??

bedrog

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 12:43 p.m.

amen to demistify's... and re the comments of those who attribute the complex arizona situation to 'white racists'... many of the strongest supporters of tightened immigration controls against illegals in fact are hispanics of legal status. and to treat the "pre white racist' southwest situation as a nirvana of noble "people of color", living in amity with each other and mother nature, is preposterous.it's always been a place of ethnic conflict and flux. the anasazi were decimated by the incoming apache/navajo, as were the pima...and all were terrorized by the huge comanche empire which de facto ruled the southwest until well into the 19th century. south of the border yaqis terrorized raramuri while the aztecs beat on ( and possibly ate) everyone else...until cortez and his spaniards beat THEM, with the mixed-race progeny becoming those who poster(s) in question somehow seem to view as "sprung from the earth's bosom". bad history, coupled with blinders-on one issue zealotry and over-romanticism of one particular side in a complex issue, is a guarantee of horrible social policy... and MODERATOR...i get why you deleted my first version...but not the 2nd..and certainly not this one if it disappears.

Evalyn

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 12:27 p.m.

Hey, AA City Council..... go ahead and disagree if you want but spend your BUSINESS TIME DOING BUSINESS FOR ANN ARBOR! That's AA, not AZ!

RU4A2

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 12:16 p.m.

Check out the video on YouTube- (The Guy From Boston-Harsh Laws) This says it all!!!!!!

Speechless

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 12:12 p.m.

The immigration issue provides a still-socially acceptable outlet for a social majority to express its racial and cultural fear of "the other." But, as attacks on legal immigrants have gradually lost acceptability in public discourse through the decades, the focus has narrowed to those who cross illegally. That drives much of the objection to the city council resolution proposed by Briere and Smith (with the notable exception of Ed's Ghost, who feels the AZ law will get struck down in the higher courts anyway). So, in confronting immigration issues, race and culture need to be removed from the equation. Reminder: The resolution also speaks to current efforts by some state legislators to copy the Arizona law and bring it to Michigan. Clearly, the solution is to allow illegal immigrants to go free. Release every one of them who has been apprehended solely due to immigration status. Instead, end their existing employment arrangements. Then slap their former employers with a series of major felony charges. Throw the ex-employers in the slammer for several years under mandatory minimum sentencing. Treat those who hire illegal immigrants the same as big-time narcotics dealers. Thus, by applying the kind of draconian enforcement style preferable to conservatives, the problem is solved — stopped dead in its tracks. Or, alternately, we could have a more rational, compassionate discussion that elects not to demonize illegal immigrants (or their employers). But that, however, would make it harder to play out racial & cultural tensions.

Ann Arbor

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 12:09 p.m.

The point is to do whatever possible to pre-empt the Michigan copycat law. Yes, WAY too many cuts on our police and other services. If the Michigan copycat law gets passed, our cops will be stuck trying to enforce federal law -- and then we'll REALLY be stuck with more crime, from real criminals.

jondhall

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 12:09 p.m.

If profiling based upon looks is not legal there would be not profiling at all! As for those Liberals that want socialism they can move to California. Arizona may save this country yet, understand breaking the law is illegal! Let us build the Fence and build it tall and strong, make America work for America not for everyone else. We just celebrated Independence Day and many have no idea what that should mean to us, taxation without Representation,if that is OK with you then go live somewhere else. I love this country and no one will destroy it, not even Ann Arbor Liberal City Council, as long as I have an Ann Arbor address! Hail to the Victors and for City Council, all I can say is Boooooooo

pbehjatnia

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 11:59 a.m.

I am mystified. We have police cuts; fire cuts; city services cuts; a major bridge falling down; roads going to pieces.... and... this is what the Ann Arbor City Council is using our tax dollars for? Please, please tell me this is a joke. FYI to Council & Mayor: you were elected to serve the citizens of ANN ARBOR. You were not voted into office to waste valuable time/$$s on your own pet peeves.

RobRoy

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 11:53 a.m.

@Angela, With all due respect, my parents came here legally...they waited for 15 years to come to America and even after they became legal, they were demonized by naturalized citizens saying that they were "stealing jobs." Frankly, the jobs that illegals have, are ones that most Americans dont want, are too lazy for, are grossly underpaid, or are far too dangerous. Its not typical lib politics--its the sad truth. Like it or not, there is a strong racist undertone to a lot of the debate. We can debate the law but I call it like I see it and a lot of the folks supporting the Arizona law dont like the idea of anyone coming here, legal or not. I only wish that the supporters of the Arizona law were as vehement about punishing the American businesses that provide a market to exploit and abuse these illegal workers. The employers should be threatened with 10 years of jail time, or revocation of citizenship for compromising national security if its such a big deal...not just some crappy fine.

RayA2

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 11:51 a.m.

Britannicus, Why do you think that it is only liberals that support the influx of illegal aliens? Polls of Democrats find they overwhelmingly support Arizona's law. It is the Republicans that support easy immigration because, as the party representative of the controllers of this country's capital, they are the ones who profit by the availability of cheap labor. Cheap labor also undermines labor, who vote their self interest, ie. Democratic.

johnnya2

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 11:51 a.m.

128 comments so far, and I wonder how many of them are ACTUALLY living in Ann Arbor? If they are not, based on their words here, it is NONE OF THEIR BUSINESS. The only things that matter are what happens in your own little enclave. Typical of selfish republican attitudes. Only care about yourself and to hell with the rest of them. Hell, you should not be allowed to comment on BP's oil spill, the World Cup soccer matches, and if you do not currently attend, work for or are an alumni have any comment about what the UM does.

Carole

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 11:41 a.m.

How arrogant -- The council and mayor of Ann Arbor are paid by the citizens of Ann Arbor to take care of the city of Ann Arbor -- You work for us, the Citizens of Ann Arbor -- please turn your attention to that task at hand -- which at the present moment is a very difficult due to budgetary problems. ACLU - I truly wish you would take your concerns some place other than Michigan. Too many times, you, yes, I mean you, through what ever means, have infringed on my rights to enjoy the liberties that my uncles and brothers fought so bravely for in three different wars. And, I agree with who ever commented about the Laws of Mexico -- if US citizens enter their country there are rules and regulations that must be followed, and if not, you are out of there or in jail. Illegal means just that -- if you wish to be part of the USA then become a real part of the USA by being responsible in become a citizen.

SonnyDog09

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 11:27 a.m.

This is my tax dollars at work. I am so happy that my hard earned tax dollars are being used for such frippery. I will echo what others have said: Ann Arbor City Council should focus on Ann Arbor issues. That's what we are paying them to do. If these council members want to be involved in national issues, they should run for national office. Quit wasting our time and get back to work!

uawisok

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 11:25 a.m.

When 1 person rights are in dangers...all peoples rights are in danger of being lost!!!

John Q

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 11:06 a.m.

Sorry folks, anyone can participate in an online poll. They're meaningless. A random sample of the opinion of people on the streets of Ann Arbor is a more scientific survey of what Ann Arbor residents think than anything that's ever posted here. If Briere and Smith are out-of-step with their constituents, they'll here from them. Constituents are those people who actually live and pay taxes and vote in Ann Arbor. Which excludes at least 75% of the people making comments on this topic.

Marty

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 10:09 a.m.

I wonder how many of the council members have even read the law. Hopefully they aren't a bunch of idiots that don't even know that Arizona shares a border with Mexico like some other elected officials have had to be taught. The fact is we have laws in this country. If someone is here "illegally" it is against the law.

jondhall

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 9:58 a.m.

I would expect no less from the bleeding heart Liberals on City Council, I suggest we eliminate all that vote for this resolution. Pay attentions to the city you can not run properly, Arizona will take care of them selves. I you want to worry about something try Korea with Nuclear Bombs coming soon to an Ann Arbor Door step, or worry about Iran. Better yet go plant some flowers they always smell good! What next from this Council? What next?

angela

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 9:57 a.m.

Typical lib politics. Even though the voters of atleast this site say no 74 to 24 they will still do whatever they want. Ann Arbor is for nincompoops. Heaven forbid we question someone from mexico to see if they are an illegal from mexico. I guess if a crime was reported to be commited by a short woman it would be profiling to look for a short woman. Im ashamed that the Ann Arbor news would say its a law that encourages racial profiling because that is a lie. Its a law that supports the law already in place. This country loves people to come here as long as its legal. Fences make good neighbors

RobRoy

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 9:42 a.m.

@InsideTheHall Im basing this off crime statistics from the FBI. Im not saying its Mayberry in Laredo. I just think its important to point out that there are plenty of border cities that have crime well below the national average. In fact some of them sport some of the lowest crime averages in America. I have no doubt that illegal immigration is an issue in many municipalities, however, I am a bit stunned that the Governor of Arizona hasnt mobilized her national guard to help local law enforcements. The hilarity behind this entire conversation is that Bush had the courage to bring up and try to resolve the immigration issue a couple years ago and the conservatives from his own party were the ones that killed it. Ironically, they are now the same folks complaining that nothing is getting done by Obama and are stamping their feet and crying freedom, liberty, and a bunch of other crap that doesnt make any sense, like a bunch of recalcitrant children.

JimFuester

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 9:38 a.m.

Is it not HEARTBREAKING to most, if not all- or even any, of the naysayers about A2 City Council's participation by resolution in this subject of discussion that something like this issue even needs to be before us? Realistically, discrimination always has been and always will be around us, behind us, and surreptitiously or blatantly in front of us. Yes, each and every one of us. We are all part of the community we find ourselves in, and for the betterment of all of us each of us should speak up for those who are oppressed. Human history is overloaded with the oppressed and downtrodden being discriminated against, stopped, searched, detained, imprisoned, and killed. Hyperbole? No, one only needs to review unvarnished history of any (ANY) civilization or community- INCLUDING our own illustrious American history. When times are great, everyone who wants to work is working, people are flush with all good things... an issue like immigrants is looked upon with such different eyes. Everyone is happy to reach down, and offer a helping hand to those of an oppressed land who make it here by any means, or even the local person on the street who is down on their luck. When times are tough.... as everyone will agree they are now... Then it is now O.K. to behave differently, and want to promote the uglier side of human behavior? The UGLIER side of human behavior. It is heartbreaking to me to see so many comments, and so many repeat commentators loading up this venue, who are ready to jump to the front (dare I ask- only because they're able to spout off safely on line here?) and 'shout out' "Kick the Bums Out! They don't belong here!!" Others have asked and stated-- How many of us are really "legal" in this fair land of ours? Are there many of us who can HONESTLY say they are a native, and therefore "legal" and belong here? Our "Great American Civilization," these United States, and modern community governmental efforts are BUILT upon the concept of accepting those who make it to our 'shores' and seek asylum and a better life for themselves. Yes, a better life, and that leads not to one just for themselves but in reality for all they interact with. May I suggest in friendship that all those who think our City Council is wasting their time with attention to this resolution that they take a few of their minutes and read up on that great American, and yes GLOBAL, icon The Statue of Liberty. Let me also suggest in friendship and humility that they pay particular attention to the inscription there upon. Elected government officials are not elected to represent a singular or parochial view, but in reality the broader view that serves the community in general... this is so often forgotten by those who fail to stand up, step out, rise up and look around and realize they do not exist in the tiny bubble they only see at the end of their noses- or the edge of their front porch, or the edge of their property line! You exist in a larger community. What makes us great, and makes Ann Arbor great, is our history of extending a hand- whether by a contribution, or a deed, or a vote in support of those in need or that are oppressed. I should like to remind all those naysayers with an observation and thought that if YOU were in the position of seeking a better life, living in fear of the authorities, and only wanting to exist in a civilized community... that YOU would be crying out for any and every bit of justice -and that includes a resolution by those who govern your community -against the uglier side of human behavior! A resolution on the part of Ann Arbor City Council is entirely appropriate in the matter of potential injustice and infringements upon our civil liberties, yours mine and all those among us. It is this effort that keeps us, Ann Arbor, connected to our greater community of humanity from which we ALL benefit.

Danah Greer

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 9:25 a.m.

Ann Arbor has enough unreconciled issues to worry about. We should stay our of Arizona. I think the Arizona Immigration Law is a very good thing, there are way too many undocumented immigrants in this country. more states should follow this lead. Ann Arbor Council; turn your focus to Ann Arbor!!

Canuck

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 9:25 a.m.

A voice booms: "Do not arouse the wrath of the Great and Powerful Oz!" The heartless Arizona Tin Man rattles in fear. Council moves on to the mandane business of repairing the Yellow Brick Road and cutting the salary and benefits of the Wicked Witch of the West. All is well in Land of Oz.

Stephen Landes

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 9:23 a.m.

@ Ghost You persist in (willfully?) missing the point the point -- the AZ law prohibits (as in does not allow, permit, or condone) racial profiling. Any law can be misused, so vigilance by citizens is important. However, to condemn the AZ law and its proponents (namely the 60+% of AZ citizens who support this law) for something that is not written in the law and has not occurred is not correct and would have driven the person you choose to emulate nuts.

russellr

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 9:18 a.m.

If you are legal what are you afraid of??? The only ones kicking and screaming are illegal aliens. Ann Arbor keep your big nose out of other states business. I will do my best to support Arizonia. Another words your for these people breaking the law, so why should we obey some of your stupid laws, you can't even run this small city. Do your job here then if you can get it alright here then stick your nose in other states business

Mike58

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 9:18 a.m.

This is great news! We have solved all of Ann Arbor's issues and now have time to assist other governmental bodies. Seriously, this displays very poor judgment on certain members of the Ann Arbor City Council. Let's try to stay on task folks. If you can't, or won't stay focused on the issues you were elected to oversee then maybe it's time to step down from the position.

Seasoned Cit

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 9:11 a.m.

Power Corrupts! It's amazing how having the power to defer repairs on the Stadium Bridges and tell developers their ideas are not suitable... suddenly makes Council members think they will have an impact on a far away State's legislation. Maybe they can work on Middle East Peace next while they wait for the new water park that will be part of the New City Hall. Are they are all hoping for roles in the next movie that will be made in town (Dumb and Even Dumber)?

demistify

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 9:11 a.m.

The most conspicuous racial profiling in Ann Arbor has been the harassment of the synagogue during services by a small group of fanatics who favor banners with swastikas on them. A historical note: The swastika was originally a Native American motif. It was later picked up (distorted) by the Nazis, and since then sported by some of their accessory-after-the-fact wannabes. A Navajo friend told me that his tribe has stopped using the swastika, to express respect for the victims of Nazism.

retiredteacher

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 9:01 a.m.

Several obvouos points. 1) Arizona's law is close the federal one, actually more tolerant. 2) so it is legal & proper. 3) now The BDELS(brain dead eastern liberals) want to second guess federal law? 4) How is it any of AA' concern or business. But it does make them look childish & naive(which they are of course) 5) Unless there are some AMERICANS on the board that would support Arizona, the shut the h-ll up.. 6) would all the phony lliberals please move to Europe or Saudia Arabia(oh they will love you to death there) & leave the USA to AMERICANS. 7) what part of CRIMINAL (i.e. illegal migrants) in not understood. Are there no dictionaries at UM? 8) racial profiling, what race are these criminals? Negroids? Orientals? Ainu? What race are they different form millions of us with "Iberian" or native American ancestry. 9) hypocrites & worthless busibodies. 10) really want to help go the border & beg the drug smugglers to stop--& spare your life.

newspaperreader

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 9 a.m.

Has anyone read the Arizona law? It does not racially profile. After someone has been stopped for some other reason and they cannot produce identification, then it allows local authorities to enforce what is already Federal law.

sbbuilder

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 8:17 a.m.

Ghost Nice tip toe around the question. But could you site specifics please? If law enforcement do not abide by the law, and I'm sure this can be shown, then the 'illegal' will go free. The law is crafted to ensure that racial profiling is not allowed. So, again, could you enlighten the rest of us as to the passages you find objectionable? Thanks

Olan Owen Barnes

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 8:16 a.m.

What could cause suspicion that someone is here in a illegal fashion - speeding trough a light and seeing 15 people packed in a van with automatic weapons. There is no good night about that.

Concerned Citizen

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 8:16 a.m.

What a waste of time. Ann Arbor please vote these people of the counsel.

bedrog

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 8:06 a.m.

perhaps ethnic profiling could be modified to "fanatic profiling',be it in arizona or ann arbor or elsewhere.. ( e.g carrying racist signs while wearing a mindless grin and muttering...even if one is 'blindingly white'; wearing gang tatoos associated with lethal cartels; bumber stickers with ditto the above; murmering 'shuhada' ( martyrs) prayers while on a flight; openly promoting genocidal terrorist groups/ideologies in, oh,say, city council meetings.....etc etc.

stunhsif

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 8:03 a.m.

A2 City Council politics remind me of watching the good old Ringling Brothers circus. And in the leftist corner welcome Sandi and Sabra, "taddah"!!! All we're missing is the grease paint! Let's not work on the business we were hired to handle. Let's stick our nose in everyone else's business instead.

terry rybak

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 7:58 a.m.

So what is the big deal? Arizona's law reflects the Federal law. And if the Federal government won't enforce the law, the states must protect their own citizens. A number of illegal immigrants are coming from the Middle East and entering our country through Mexico. Allowing just anybody to enter the country means we are allowing some criminals to enter, and this violates our right to life described in the Declaration of Independence.

sbbuilder

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 7:55 a.m.

Could any of the supporters of this resolution please quote the specific part of the Arizona bill that they are against? It seems that racial profiling is both allowed and encouraged in this bill, so I'm wondering about the language used. I looked for the racial profiling section, but couldn't find it. Here is the actual bill: www.azleg.gov/legtext/49leg/2r/bills/sb1070s.pdf If you can find the passages allowing racial profiling, I will gladly change my view. Until then, I believe City Council has shown abundant neglect of their fiduciary duty to the citizens of Ann Arbor to shepherd us through difficut times.

DaLast word

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 7:54 a.m.

With the great majority of these comments AGAINST this resolution....Who is it exactly that this city council is representing? Obviously not the citizens of Ann Arbor

sambra

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 7:39 a.m.

Why doesn't council take the time to figure out a budget that provides for basic city services before spending time commenting on other citizen's legislation. This is what makes Ann Arbor a joke.

Moonmaiden

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 7:28 a.m.

After this passes, will the City Council pass a resolution condemning BP? Drug Dealers? Parents who spank? Illegal fireworks? Glad to know AA doesn't have significant local issues that need attention.

laura sanders

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 7:12 a.m.

Actually, Washtenaw Interfaith Coalition for Immigrant Rights has documented 160 cases of immigration raids, detainment and deportations, locally, which is the tip of the ice berg. In 24 cases, racial profiling was involved, including people being stopped for things like low air in their tires, a rosary hanging from a rearview mirror, failing to use a blinker when turning out of a private driveway. These are documented cases,and it is interesting, for years I have had a rather obtrusive figure hanging from my mirror, and have never been stopped for it, nor have police said anything about it when I was stopped for speeding, but I am white. Racial profiling is alive and well in Ann Arbor.

glimmertwin

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 7:09 a.m.

Let these two council members take a month-long break in Juarez to get their minds right!

Brad

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 7:09 a.m.

What a waste of time. How about they find a way to keep picking up the leaves and not darkening street lights instead?

Jon Saalberg

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 6:59 a.m.

Look at the bright side - this means that for a moment, the Council focused on something other than nixing development in the downtown area, or building an unnecessary parking garage.

Gorc

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 6:38 a.m.

I have been to Mexico a half dozen times....every time I entered their sovereign state I had to show paperwork (my passport) before I entered. If I didn't have the my ID they would not have allowed me to enter.

Steve Pepple

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 6:09 a.m.

A comment was removed because of name-calling.

Awakened

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 6:05 a.m.

A quick search of the City's Web site: Ann Arbor City Code Chapter 108 - DISORDERLY CONDUCT Section 9:62 "(28) Fail to accurately identify himself or herself when requested to do so by a police officer after the officer observes that person commit a civil infraction or when the officer has probable cause to believe the person has committed a misdemeanor outside the officer's presence." This is not unlike the Arizona law except it DOES NOT have specific prohibitions against profiling. The Arizona Law DOES!

bedrog

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 6:05 a.m.

unwarranted profiling is wrong... BUT warranted profiling is absolutely correct in principal, although it needs constant fine tuning to be effective...as it must be in issues of terrorism ( mostly emanating from a particular region of the world), cartel drug running,and other crimes. for ann arbor city council people to be 2nd guessing those more on the front lines of illegal and often dangerous/pernicious southern border issues than they/we is absurd. and the inconvenience to an innocent being questioned is absolutely trumped by the dangers in predending the world is a big fat 'we are the world' kumbaya fest. and im as sad about that as anyone. i'd also add that one of the most relentless commentators here ( on what is clearly the minority side) is also perpetually 'profiling' in his rants about the 'racism/apartheidism/genocidalism ' of anyone he disagrees with....which is pretty much everyone in a2, but a tiny cabal,.....thank god!

j6015

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 5:46 a.m.

We should be going after the US companies that advertise in Mexico for workers. The companies that bus illegals into the US with the promise of jobs and money. Tax free money at that. I voted NO on the poll as I do not think this should be an issue for any city council other then the ones in AZ to be discussing. If A2 city council members want to make a stand on an immigration issue, stand up to the companies that bus in illegal immigrants. You never read how ICE agents are arresting CEO's of companies that hire illegal immigrants.

pbehjatnia

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 5:43 a.m.

As a taxpaying and voting resident of Ann Arbor I wish the Ann Arbor City Council and our Mayor would just please do the jobs for which they have been elected into office. Like finding a solution to our shrinking city budget. Getting police back on the streets. Putting firemen back on duty. Keeping all of our street lights on. Making sure public grounds are safe and clean. Maybe finding some $$s to keep the Stadium bridge from falling down completely.Am I asking to much?

Dave66

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 5:35 a.m.

I guess they ran out of useful things to do?

Bob W

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 5:33 a.m.

Yet another disconnect between the council and reality. Given their miserable performance on 'real' city business, one must ask, "How did they get elected?" Oh, that's right, we did it. :o( I don't know sbout the rest you, but I will not repeat this mistake in the next election.

laura sanders

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 5:29 a.m.

It is definitely the business of the Ann Arbor City Council to pass resolutions that take a stand against racial profiling, honor our diversity and protect all of our community members! We applaud Sabra Briere and Sandi Smith for having the foresight to oppose this racist Arizona legislation and set a precedent to oppose similar copy-cat bills currently being introduced in both our house and our senate in Michigan. Racial profiling is already a problem in Ann Arbor, not just Arizona, and this resolution makes it clear that we will not tolerate it. People of color and people suspected of being "immigrants" are already stopped more often for minor issues and are unlawfully questioned about immigration status. Clearly, our Latino community members, in particular, have become the most popular targets of racial profiling and hate, while just after 911, it was our Middle Eastern community. Ann Arbor took a stand then in passing a resolution to protect the civil liberties of people who were being targeted by unwarranted federal investigations, as should be expected in a city like Ann Arbor that values diversity. We need to do it again now! Racial profiling is WRONG and legalizing is unacceptable on every level. This is a pro-active resolution that puts Ann Arbor on the map as a safe place to live for all people. Thank you Ms. Briere and Ms. Smith!

A2 N8ive

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 5:29 a.m.

Really pathetic that two members of council are so arrogant and ignorant to even bring this issue up. Ann Arbor has PLENTY of more pressing problems. Our elected "representatives" need to spend more time helping their constituents and less trying to get their names in the national media. If they had bothered to read the law, they would see that they're only making fools of themselves and unnecessarily embarrassing our city.

sandi

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 5:20 a.m.

leave az. alone. we should all have that law. i'm sick of hearing about it. let the law stand, show your id.

glimmertwin

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 4:41 a.m.

This cracks me up. I don't know how Arizona will survive if little old Ann Arbor has anything to say about them. What a waste of your money.

michiganpoorboy

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 12:57 a.m.

Ann Arbor has a puffed up opinion of themselves thinking any one cares what they think it is truly a city of incompetent fools.

michiganpoorboy

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 12:57 a.m.

Ann Arbor has a puffed up opinion of themselves thinking any one cares what they think it is truly a city of incompetent fools.

lsfeir

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 12:44 a.m.

This vote may help all of us determine whether we choose a culture of hate and fear or a culture of compassion and openness in our beloved city of Ann Arbor

Jay Thomas

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 12:44 a.m.

@Esrold Blinty: Which I'm sure is not your real name;) Alien is a term back from the time of the founding of the country. There are different types of aliens in law: legal and therefore illegal, resident and non-resident; and even enemy aliens. If you want to take illegal alien as a pejorative and use some euphemism like "undocumented worker" that's your business. Don't expect the rest of us to.

Esrold Blinty

Tue, Jul 6, 2010 : 12:19 a.m.

It's so sad to see all of the misinformation swirling around this issue. For example one person wrote "If these illegal aliens were considered potential Republican voters they would be on the fast track back to Mexico and points south." This person clearly assumes that "illegal aliens" come primarily from south of our border, rather than from all over the world as is the case. They also use the pejorative term "illegal alien." Should we call U.S. citizens who have ever broken the speed limit, or spit on a street, or smoked pot, or drank alcohol before the legal age an "illegal citizen?" Instead, we should base our discussion upon facts. Here are some: 1) Foreign born Hispanics comprise about 1.34% of the Detroit population as of the last period surveyed (source, the 2005-07 American Community Survey). 2) Of all the foreign born people in the U.S. less than one third are undocumented. Source: the Pew Hispanic Center. 3) "The well documented facts evidence that undocumented immigrants have paid hundreds of billions of dollars in American taxes to date." source: The Undocumented Immigrant Tax by Francine J. Lipman based upon figures from the IRS. 4) "Numerous studies by independent researchers and government commissions over the past 100 years repeatedly and consistently have found that, in fact, immigrants are less likely to commit crimes or to be behind bars than are the [U.S.] native-born." source The El Paso Miracle. 5) Forty percent of all immigrants who are here without current permission arrived legally but overstayed their visas. source Doris Meissner, a senior fellow at the Migration Policy Institute, and former commissioner of the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service. 6) "Study after study has shown that immigrants grow the economy...thereby creating jobs. There is even broad agreement among economists that while immigrants may push down wages for some, the overall effect is to increase average wages for American-born workers." source article "Does Immigration Cost Jobs?" on FactCheck.org (which sites 9 sources of its information). I believe that armed with facts instead of fear and the hate that it engenders we can, as a country, pass better laws and be better citizens.

nicole

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 11:35 p.m.

Unbelievable! Our tax dollars at work again. Let's waste time passing a resolution about another state. Arizona has every right to pass the law they did. All it says is that if they suspect someone isn't a citizen they can ask for proof of citizenship. What a concept? Oh, but I forgot, if you are an American citizen you actually have less rights that if you are an illegal alien. Do you actually think you have a right to be protected and have your borders secured? As an American citizen I demand that the federal government do the one job they're supposed to do, defend this nation, secure our borders now.

mike from saline

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 11:24 p.m.

I don't know if Sabra Briere, and Sandi Smith are reading these comments, or not, but if they were, wouldn't you be curious about there reaction to the enthusiastic support they're getting from Blain coleman? Thank God.... or Yeeh gods. what do ya think?

Tamar Weaver

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 10:57 p.m.

Asking for Yes or No vote is misleading and confusing here. There is a problem with the Yes and No answers since saying No to Opposing resolution is a double negative. Some people that oppose the AZ law may say NO to this resolution in mistake. People are many times confused and see double negative as negative and if they are against the AZ resolution/Law they may say NO to this resolution. It took me time to follow this logic and I voted Yes, meaning to support the resolution that is opposing the AZ low, NOT meaning that I am FOR the AZ law. I bet that many with my opinion voted NO.

jcbogg

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 10:51 p.m.

So our president felt that the president of Mexico really understands the immigration problem that is in such popular discourse in good old A2? Here is a simple solution... Just take a copy of Mexican immigration law and when the word "Mexico" comes up, just substitute "United States" Then we will have a fair law (That is what Obama said). This should make everyone happy in Ann Arbor and Arizona. How can this be you say? Read a copy of the Mexican law and you will see for yourself... And by the way Mexico enforces their law and does not play silly political games like the United States does.

racerx

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 10:50 p.m.

How many residents of the state of Arizona thinks the city of Ann Arbor should pony up the funds and replace both the Stadium and State St. bridges? Yea. I thought so.

Not from around here

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 10:01 p.m.

The united States is a nation based on Immegration. My Great Grand Parent imegrated here several genrations ago and I am glad they did. However a few points...!. They came here legally. They waited in line and applied for citizenship like anyone else. 2. They came and adapted themselves to there new home. Theylearned the languages and followed the laws. They re invested ther money in there new country they didn't send it back to there former homeland 3. They Be cam "Americans" not " -americans" In the decades that followed, twice they were called to fight and die for there county, both times taking arms up against there old homeland and they did this willingly. Illegal immegration is just that, Illegal. and like any other illegal act, condoning it will hurt this country more than help. Heck both of my grandfathers changed there names to avoid what would now a days be called "profiling" but never bregruded doing that. Just like we tell kids it's not OK to cut in line and cheat, lets hold potental new citizens to that same standard.

Bill Wilson

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 9:32 p.m.

I wonder... Do these city council members have the faintest clue what their job is? Boggles the mind. "While the Bridge Crumbles" would be a good title for a book about them. No... not a book... a soap opera "While the bridge crumbles" ('As the stomach turns' was sadly, already taken). I don't know which is funnier... the council and their comic book mentality behavior, or Paula Gardner's wacky "stay on the subject" post. Unreal!

Jacob Bodnar

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 9:15 p.m.

In other news a city council somewhere in the country is voting on something that matters. Ann Arbor has no business voting to oppose a law in Arizona, it is simply ridiculous. The law makes sense, all they're doing is enforcing a federal law, explain to me why that is crazy? And then when you're done with that explain why Ann Arbor cares?

Scott Elliott

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 9:05 p.m.

It might not seem relevant, but racial profiling is happening in our community every day in dramatic and blatant ways and civil rights are being violated in ways I never thought I would see in the United States. And yes, even illegal immigrants have civil rights. What's happening in Arizona is relevant to us and to the kind of community and society we choose to live in. What's happening around this issue here and in Arizona is very scary and very 3rd Reich. And, no, in many cases Americans don't want the jobs that immigrants are doing and in some cases businesses are suffering because they can't fill the positions. The time will come in the not too distant future when we will be seeking them out.

Speechless

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 8:59 p.m.

Support for this particular council resolution is both timely and important. Those who wish to import Arizona's new racial profiling law into Michigan deserve a loud, stern rebuke from many cities and counties in the state. The Arizona government can act in remarkably racist ways. One gets the impression that its dominant politicos wish the state had many years ago become the west wing of the Jim Crow-era South — a George Wallace envy. Between their strident, rear-guard resistance to MLK Day not that long ago, and the current stance on immigration in their state law, Arizona holds the torch high for racial scapegoating and for cultural discrimination. In recent years, the term "immigration" acts as a code for these practices. If right-leaning Arizona politicians could get away with it, they'd accuse their Native American population of illegal immigration. After all, tribes entered Alaska 11,000 years ago without proper papers and never got green cards. As it stands, it's becoming more important, anyway, that we shift most border protection resources over to the northern U.S. boundary — especially here. We simply have to stop the millions of fleeing Canadians who desperately seek freedom from their lifelong burden of free, high-quality health care.

InsideTheHall

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 8:32 p.m.

Well this is Ann Arbor being Ann Arbor where fantasy never quite matches reality. RobRoy: Have you been to Laredo lately? It is a town under seige.

demistify

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 8:29 p.m.

The City Council is elected (and paid) to run the City of Ann Arbor. Ann Arbor is not in Arizona. Ann Arbor citizens cannot vote in Arizona. The City Council has no jurisdiction in Arizona. Granted, Arizona passed a bad law. Grandstanding by the Ann Arbor City Council will not change that. The Council has a hard enough time coping with City business in this difficult period. It should stick to its knitting.

Ann Arbor

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 8:16 p.m.

People, there is a MICHIGAN copycat law under consideration. The point is *exactly* that as a community, we do NOT want some other states' misplaced and irrelevant ideologies imposed on us here. Our local police do not have the resources to deal with frivolous new enforcement directives, which is what this law is. We need this resolution to start sending this message ASAP so that OUR lawmakers don't waste time on this stupidity.

Juno

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 7:44 p.m.

I'm curious to know how many of the Council members actually read the Arizona bill, because it is actually less strict than current Federal law. Knee-jerk reactions make the Council members look, well, REACTIONARY. So much for their hallowed "liberal" outlook.

Marvin Face

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 7:38 p.m.

After several years of Briere in office, it is clear that she lacks the intellectual aptitude for the job. Time and time again she cherry-picks the easy "issues", and they are always the ones she thinks will further her political ambitions. I actually laughed out loud when I read the headline. BTW, did you see her do a 180 on Lesko with her comments in the Observer? She started out doing everything she could to get Lesko elected and when the Lesko campaign turned into a train wreck, Briere threw her under the bus. Brilliant. The only thing that really surprises me is that Anglin isn't in on this garbage resolution somehow.

Drew

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 7:25 p.m.

I hope they never pass a law making it unlawful to be homeless in Michigan. Then Arizona can have a vote for our city. A2 does not deal with illegal immigrants flooding its city....There is this little thing called "standing" and we don't have it.

millermaple

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 7:22 p.m.

I can't believe that the city council has time for this nonsense- I pay my exorbitant property taxes but then have my services reduced -like no longer having my leaves picked-up! What does this have to do with our problems here? The streets are in terrible condition and full of potholes. What a waste of time. I'm sure Arizona is quaking in their boots.

LB

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 7:20 p.m.

Since when is the ACLU running city government. Why don't the elected politicians worry about their own back yard? If the ACLU is so concerned, why not put up some of the money for the art work at city hall!

local

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 7:20 p.m.

City council has much bigger issues than this, police and firefighter issues, Stadium road bridge, cutting back services in a high tax base. Folks give it up and move on to something that will help those you are elected to serve. On immigration, if the federal govt. enforced the law already on the books, Arizona wouldn't have to do it for them. Secure those borders ASAP, not just in Arizona, but across the country.

JoeM

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 6:59 p.m.

Dear City Council, You have much more important things to worry about than to pass judgment upon an issue for which you have no real knowledge or experience. My family resides in Phoenix and there are a few facts that they could share with you. Did you know that when you get in a car accident with an uninsured illegal alien, you foot the bill? How about the fact that the hospitals are required to treat everyone, and the emergency rooms are over run daily with illegals... who foots the bill for that? How about the illegal alien drug runners who have no value for human life, the ones that make the news daily in Arizona for shooting up cars with innocent women and children for accidentally changing lanes to closely? While I certainly don't like the fact that the authorities have been given the ability to question statehood on a whim, I do understand that the steps have been taken as a result of a serious and growing problem. This problem is only one that you might understand if you had actually experienced it first hand. So again, Ann Arbor City Council, I suggest that you focus on the important matters at hand.

BernieP

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 6:56 p.m.

As a concerned citizen of the 1st Ward, I respectfully ask that our elected officials please work to maintain and repair our infrastructure, establish plans to curtail gang activity and also to curtail the harassment of taxpaying citizens by the ever pervasive vagrants. Please stop wasting our hard earned tax payer dollars on this political grandstanding.

GoblueBeatOSU

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 6:53 p.m.

Boy what is up with this so called City Council? The votes are in on this topic and it is very clear the people of AA don't support the council's actions. This council has forgotten who they work for and why. Please, can't we all agree that it is time to vote these people out. AA needs strong leadership and this council has demonstrated they don't care about the priorities of the majority.

frozenhotchocolate

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 6:25 p.m.

Doesn't the city council only govern Ann Arbor. It's a good thing I love this city (not it's portentious government) because there are so many mean things I could say right now.

Hunterjim

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 6:19 p.m.

Vote them all out! What a waste of time. Once again our City Council has shown how little they care about the city in favor of their misguided idealist socialist ideas they wish to impose on the rest of the world. "Moscow on the Huron" has once again stuck it's nose where it does not belong.STICK TO LOCAL ISSUES! I support Arizona's fortitude and determination to protect itself, when the federal government continuely failed to do it's job.

Rasputin

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 6 p.m.

The caption says it all: "Council Member Sabra Briere, right, and Sandi Smith are co-sponsors of a resolution attracting national attention." Personally, I salute them both! This is about sending a message. A message of tolerance.

Awakened

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 5:52 p.m.

I think City Council should grant amnesty to all the illegal aliens in the country and end the issue once and for all.

sbbuilder

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 5:51 p.m.

Why should we be surprised with this behavior of our City Council? Just as a leopard cannot change its spots, council members are acting consistently with their beliefs. They probably couldn't do otherwise if they tried. Somewhere I remember a proberb about removing the log out of your own eye before removing the splinter out of your neighbors'. The issue is moot. Councils behaviour is everything. We'll just have to remember this nugget along with all the others next time the polls open. And, Blain, hold on, I think, now what was it, zzzzzzzzzzz

stephanie

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 5:40 p.m.

The north side is full of immigrants and I suppose they are trying to get points with them, but what I don't understand with all of the unemployment, why are all of these foreigners in Ann Arbor getting immigration when there are so many Americans out of work and losing their homes. Are there really no Americans who can do these jobs? Wouldn't it be nice to have someone on the Ann Arbor council advocating for Americans. They come over here and have their babies who get into colleges that American kids can't get in to. They take jobs that Americans could very well do. Racial tolerance and diversity are one thing. Handing our future over to the immigrants is another and that is exactly what we are doing.

5c0++ H4d13y

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 5:33 p.m.

What a complete waste of time. Stick to A2 business.

paroleeplanet

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 5:28 p.m.

Can we, those of us who disagree with the councils actions, please remember this nonsense the next time we go to the polls? Maybe we can give them time to travel to the great state of Arizona and protest the law there full time.Do not forget this!!!!

The Watchman

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 5:27 p.m.

I think one of the poll options should be "Should the Ann Arbor City Council be concerned with City Affairs at this juncture?"

81wolverine

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 5:22 p.m.

It's completely wrong for the Council to waste limited time and resources debating an issue in another state. They have enough to do to keep this city solvent and solving pressing local problems. As far as the AZ law goes, although I'm not in complete agreement with all aspects of it, I don't blame that state a bit for trying to do something about an out-of-control problem. The Federal government bureaucrats are not doing nearly enough to stem the tide of illegal aliens into this country. When it comes to making hard decisions, the politicians in Washington and most state governments have become cowardly and useless. That's a big reason why problems like the deteriorating infrastructure, budget deficit, declining educational system, and health care crisis aren't getting any better. And it's a big reason our standard of living in this country has been going downhill. At least give AZ credit for taking a stand and making a decision!

daytona084

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 5:14 p.m.

I wonder... Do these city council members have the faintest clue what their job is? Boggles the mind. "While the Bridge Crumbles" would be a good title for a book about them. Then again, the city residents have a long history of electing this type to their government. You would think an "enlightened" community as they like to think of themselves would come to their senses and vote them out.

silverwings

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 5:12 p.m.

Can we please have a choice in the poll: Oppose Arizona's immigration law, but also oppose council's resolution?

RobRoy

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 5:07 p.m.

i completely disagree with the council taking time to even tackle this seeing as it has absolutely no impact on the citizens of a2. That being said, I think the Arizona law is complete nonsense.

MikeMartin

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 5:04 p.m.

It seems to me that no matter what side of the issue you are on regarding illegal immigration; the point is that city council wasn't elected to pass resolutions on Arizona laws. Get to the business of the city! And, do it well. This is a waste of time and an insult to those who voted the council in. Classic Ann Arbor city council time wasting- really an embarrassment.

Arno B

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 4:59 p.m.

Our wonderful do-gooders are at it again! The article didn't say if copies of the AZ legislation have been distributed to all members of our esteemed City Hall (I guess that might include the mayor too!), nor was it explained by the plaintiffs precisely what portions they were opposed to. Whose votes do they think that they are buying by diverting attention from Michigan-style real problems?

RobRoy

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 4:56 p.m.

The Governor of Arizona has the authority to mobilize the national guard of her state if she wants them doing border patrol or helping local law enforcement. That is well within her authority. However, the new Arizona law IS ridiculous and opens the state up to ridiculous and costly lawsuits. El Paso (TX), Brownsville (TX), Laredo (TX), McAllen (TX), and San Diego (CA) are all border cities and have some of the lowest crime rates in the country. Id be interested to hear the Governor of Arizona explain why her state is the exception. Im all about enforcing the law but it seems like Gov Brewer should instead be focused on Arizona's unemployment and making public service announcements about the dangers of sun exposure.....

Val Losse

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 4:54 p.m.

Maybe we could vote to send City council to Arizone to enjoy the crime wave being committed by the illegals, especially to Pheonix? Isn't it time to remove the Democrats from power? At every turn they spend our money and our time on things that don't help run the City of Ann Arbor? We need to take our City back from people who don't give a damn about our city. That resolution was voted on on my time and dime. They are suppose to run our City. TIME FOR A REAL CHANGE.

Brittanicus

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 4:53 p.m.

Although the President Obama health care reform caused great consternation, because of the drooping state of the economy. Yet illegal immigration still represents one of the most expensive issues and will remain so, until the lawmakers realize that the largest margin of patriotic people do not want any kind of--AMNESTY. But the illegal immigrant invasion is not only about the consequences of money spent to support all those who reach America, but also the underlined progression towards overpopulation. Two wars are now being fought in the name of freedom, which is squeezing tax dollars, adding to the massive deficit of 13 trillion dollars. But the never ending stream of people that crosses the border, revealing the failure of the government to halt this survival mechanismowing to the degraded corrupt government past the Southern fence. According to the website Immigrationcounters since 2002, we have received in this country under the birthright citizenship law a 5,004.786 babies, with mothers. Thats five million, four hundred thousand extra people, plus family members. "Anchor Babies not only receive free prenatal care, but the mother can apply for food stamps, Section 8 housing and other welfare programs at federal, state and county level. Yet, pregnant Americans get--NOTHING--free, accept to be hunted down by unscrupulously debt agencies, or being sued in court with judgments on their home, business or even a garnishment of wages. This is just the tip of the waiting financial iceberg, whereas everybody knows that foreign labor uses stolen or fraudulent ID to get jobs and a generous source of freebies from government agencies. Anybody can see--why another AMNESTY could even be a worse criteria to every working American. It could threaten every Americans-Legal citizens retirement. Billions more dollars will be spent on attorney's fees and processing to make the 20 million or more foreign national families to stay permanently. 2009, our illegal alien workers in the United States sent home $21.2 billion in remittances, providing the country with its second biggest supply of foreign currency after oil exports. Apathetic as it may seem we cannot any longer as a nation, subsidize the poor of this world. Our country is already owned partly by Communist China and European banks, known as the Federal Reserve. We must now resolve this painful situation by ejecting all pro-amnesty incumbents from Washington, Sacramento, California and other Liberal stronghold State Capitols. We must start emulating Arizona policing laws, implementing a much more effective E-Verify and local law enforcement application entitled 287 (g). It is up to patriotic Americans and pro-sovereignty activists, to start determining who must be kicked out of office in November. Not just politicians such as Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV), but Pelosi, Napolitano, but even Governors, Mayors and an assortment of elected city managers and officers. It is Time to discover who isFOR-- America and those who will swamp this nation with cheap labor, while our own population remains jobless. The answers are at NumbersUSA. THE ONLY CHANCE OF AMERICA HAS OF STOPPING LOW WAGE LABOR, CRIMINAL ALIENS IS TO VOTE OUT PRO-ILLEGAL ALIEN LEGISLATORS.

MikeMartin

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 4:38 p.m.

To Sabra Briere and Sandi Smith and anyone else on council who wastes his/her time on this issue that has nothing to do with the business of Ann Arbor city government, Could you people please get your acts together and start showing some leadership for the city in this time of serious issues? This is ridiculous. This knee-jerk liberal, time wasting puffery has nothing to do with what you were voted in for. Unbelievable.

dfossil

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 4:29 p.m.

I totally agree, it is the height of arrogance on the part of some counsel members to think that anything such inadequate administrators could "resolve" would mean squat to Arizona. Get on with reducing restrictive rules killing small business in our rapidly disappearing community!

bedrog

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 4:23 p.m.

paula...as a delete-ee i agree with you...so why are those 2 posts by we-all- know-who still up? in any acase it seems virtually all agree that the council is better advised AS AN ELECTED COUNCIL to stick to what they were elected to do...i.e.a2 business. what they do/support as private citizens on their own time is their own business.

josemartin

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 4:21 p.m.

Fifty cents and a city council resolution will get you a pack of gum.

Nicholas Cornhusker

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 4:13 p.m.

I think that the resolution will not affect Arizona in any way, nor will it give AACC sufficient "kudos," or attention from anti-racist organizations. In the end of the day, I have no idea how this resolution will really make Ann Arbor a better place to live in, and isn't that the purpose and role of the council's existence?

Ricebrnr

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 4:11 p.m.

If you the City Councilmenbers, care about the Arizona immigration issue, move to AZ and vote your conscience. In the meantime you were "hired" to work on local issues, not waste our time. Likewise those concerned with Israeli/Palestinian issues should deal with it in the same manner. What sovereign state or nation gives a rat's behind what anyone else thinks? You're neither running, responsible or have any authority over those populations. I highly recommend that we all tell Sabra Briere and Sandi Smith in no uncertain terms, to get back to ANN ARBOR business or the upcoming elections will find them unemployed like a great many other Michiganders.

Jay Thomas

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 4:09 p.m.

Sanity prevails in Ann Arbor once again. In the past we've stopped the illegal war in Nicaragua, the occupation of Iraq, and fought the Sambo's restaurant chain forcing them to change their name to "Jolly Tiger" so as not to offend anyone (which is a giant no-no in the United States these days) I'm just kidding. The things the city government is supposed to be doing they don't do very well. At least they can console themselves with nonsense like this. Make sure to ask them if they've even read Arizona SB 1070.

bedrog

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 3:58 p.m.

re. blaine coleman's...the very ( indeed main) reason a2 city council shouldnt open the door to extraneous issues/ individuals with a history of trying to hijack multiple organizations to single issue/obsession agendas..

Bones

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 3:52 p.m.

What business of anyone that lives outside of the state of Arizona is it? Last I heard, Arizona was a soverign state and could make it's own laws. I say stay out of it. If people here had the problems those people that live there are dealing with. I wonder just how many of the nay sayers here would jump ship and join the other side.

Jack

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 3:52 p.m.

Given the multiple comments that suggest the council not spend their time commenting on issues in other states and spppend their time on local issues, maybe they should be encouraged to comment on every other state's and countries issues. This would perclude them from messing with any local issues. Things would run better locally without their involvement

Technojunkie

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 3:45 p.m.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=O6qEQ-KnitQ www.azleg.gov/legtext/49leg/2r/bills/sb1070p.htm All Arizona did was mirror federal law so state officers could enforce it. If Congress changed federal law to be more lax than the Arizona law then maybe arguments against the Arizona law might have some logical coherency but Congress, under complete control of the Democratic Party, doesn't want to be on record doing that. Cowards. Minting millions of new "citizens" is the only chance the Democratic Party has of maintaining power, assuming elections continue, since they've managed to alienate so many natural born citizens. Given the record of the previous administration that's quite an accomplishment.

Augie

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 3:32 p.m.

This poll should have another option: "I oppose the AZ law, but A2 shouldn't make this resolution." I had to vote "No" instead, and that could be misinterpreted.

tdw

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 3:20 p.m.

Kudos to Ann Arbor.I'm sure now that AZ residents know what Ann Arbor thinks, they will change their miss guided efforts to curb illegals

Sherri Obren

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 3:14 p.m.

I find this very interesting Do you support the Ann Arbor City Council resolution opposing Arizona's immigration law? * No 83% * Yes 14% * Undecided 1% SECURE our borders!

Renee Badall

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 3:08 p.m.

~ If City Council focused as much energy on Ann Arbor as they do on other people's business, great strides would be made. P.S. ~ The Federal Government should take a lesson and do their job -- SECURE our borders!

trespass

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 3:02 p.m.

Resolutions by other government bodies may have had some importance prior to the internet in order to give a sense of what is the public consensus. Nowdays, everyone with an opinion can put it somewhere on the internet and many people have weighed in on this issue. It is a waste of time for the AA city council to debate this issue.

Stephen Landes

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 2:57 p.m.

What is absolutely clear is that the ACLU, Briere, and Smith have no comprehension of what the Arizona law states To assert that the law encourages racial profiling is absolute nonsense -- the law parallels existing Federal law in this area and, more, specifically prohibits racial profiling. Of course none of this gets to the real issue: Democrats want amnesty for all illegal aliens in the US because they believe this will give them votes. If these illegal aliens were considered potential Republican voters they would be on the fast track back to Mexico and points south. What is even worse is that continuing to encourage illegal immigration works to assure that these people will be working for the lowest wages and will have minimal protection because they can be sent back to Mexico for complaining. What we need is a secure border, sanctions on employers who hire illegal immigrants, and a workable guest worker visa program. Beyond that, anyone in the US illegally should be escorted to the border and sent to their point of origin.

jcj

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 2:54 p.m.

I hope the AZ legislators pass a resolution telling the A2 city council where to put their resolution!

jcj

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 2:46 p.m.

Let me rephrase my comment. Do the any of the members on city council think there is one person in AZ that cares what the A2 city council thinks? Do what you were elected to do! And that does not include trying to tell another state what to do. Good golly what a joke trying to run their business when you have done such a lousy job with our business!

Wolverine3660

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 2:22 p.m.

I guess the City Council has no important City business to conduct, and hence they can waste time on irrelevant issues like this.

DonBee

Mon, Jul 5, 2010 : 2:21 p.m.

With all the issues in Ann Arbor, why spend time of this? Budget, Development, Services, etc. All deserve council time and energy.