For the last fifty years, the so-called "safety valve" has not alleviated Mexico's growing pains as it transitions into a first world economy; it has merely delayed the development of the institutions that must address the lack of opportunities for the lower classes and the social disparities between ethnic Hispanics and indigenous Indians and dark-skinned mestizos. Moreover, just as the American city workman of the 19th century lacked the skills to succeed in the frontier, the poor of Mexico lack the skills to successfully compete in the information-age economy.
To achieve a realistic economic solution for the undocumented population in the United States, the pro-immigration side ought to consider a compromise whereby a moratorium period on immigration should be enacted. With proper education and time for assimilation, immigrants will be able to compete and prosper in an information-based economy, not merely put food on the table.
Furthermore, the intelligentsia on both sides of the border should foster the proper climate for economic development in the Americas, even if this means embracing some form of globalization. Globalization is as inevitable today as industrialization was in the 19th century, but likewise requires new institutions to protect human rights.
It is an interesting read especially since she was a beneficiary of the 'safety valve.' She is right. Something will have to be done and it will have to be something that 'weakens' the border in some way, shape or form allowing freeflow of peoples. The question is which one we will pick. Will it be a North American Union? Open borders? Or something else?
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