Thailand and Arizona

[zocalo]

I have no idea where people's priorities are these days. Two people I know on Facebook commented on the situation in Thailand: one is an expat living in Bangkok, another is an expat living in Taiwan. One lamented that his favorite mall is burning down, while the other lamented that his favorite theatre is being destroyed

Comments

[mblj]

Despite the safeguards, I consider it too strong an action. I carry only a California Drivers License--that is inadequate for documenting my status in the United States. So I've decided that I will not travel into Arizona, if I can avoid it. While I would expect that I, as a white (German-American) can navigate through the state successfully, or change planes in Sky Harbor, I consider it inappropriate and disgusting that the probabilities are higher for me to successfully make it through the state, than others who may be (like me) born in the United States. It's too much like Driving While Black.

There may be real dangers and need for safeguards near the border, but this does not offer that safeguard.

The NYTimes offered an interesting article (not thoroughly compelling, but very interesting) about the remarkable differences in the culture of Arizona and New Mexico. One major difference...the racial composition of the two states.

--markb

[zocalo]

I didn't know about the racial composition differences between Arizona and NM. I should look up that article because I do read NYT often. I do agree that Arizona is taking a strong measure that is a knee jerk reaction. In my ongoing discussion with this friend on Facebook, he basically listed all the crimes that illegal immigrants commit in AZ, thus justifying America's "sovereignty" and right to protect its borders. Sounds like Bush/Cheney to me! He clearly points out that the measure is not being right-wing or racist, but it's all about LAWs and proper ways of doing things.

I was confused by your statement: "I consider it inappropriate and disgusting that the probabilities are higher for me to successfully make it through the state, than others who may be (like me) born in the United States. It's too much like Driving While Black." I'm confused by the double comparison to yourself. Or do you mean it's easier for you as a German-American than say a Mexican??

[lnb1956]

We live in a world of Me, Me, Me and me first. No wonder people are concerned about their stuff and what matters to them first. Rights have become everything, civic responsibility and responsibility to each other is out the window. If I cannot get what I want then forget it. As for Arizona the law is a disgrace, it targets all the wrong people but it does illustrate one thing, there is a limit in any persons mind to what they are willing to accept in terms of change and what they see as a threat to their way of life. This law addresses the lowest common denominator and it works in populist politics.

[zocalo]

Oh definitely it's all about ME ME ME. And I find it so scary that "rights" and "sovereignty" can be used in ANY case to justify really backward laws. ANYthing and EVERYthing is based on the need to prevent terrorists and immigrants from "hurting" our country. So backwards!!

[eridrin]

In general I think a lot of people are narrow minded. Today I received a letter from parents of a graduating university student. Their comments were like "why would the university let gay/lesbian teach my children? Thank god he is finally done" "I paid full tution for my son and he still got crappy dorm room while the illegals are probably getting a free ride

[zocalo]

I can't believe in this day and age people still think that being taught by a gay teacher could have some kind of influence over the student.