Border fence: Both sides sound off

Re “Fencing over immigration,� editorial, Sept. 21

I am appalled that politicians would use my tax dollars to build fencing along the U.S.-Mexico border. Studies have shown that border security measures do not stem the flow of illegal immigration; they only make it more likely that people will die in the process of trying to cross. We need courageous lawmakers to offer solutions that value not only the contribution that hardworking immigrants make to this country’s industry and economy but also the humanity of people who come here, usually as economic refugees. Most undocumented immigrants come to the U.S. simply because their choices are to find work here to put food in the mouths of their children or watch their children starve. I believe that not one of the legislators who voted for this fencing would make a different choice given this situation.

STEPHANIE MARTIN ARGUELLO

Valencia

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May I suggest a better idea than a border fence: Bring our troops home from South Korea, Kosovo and Iraq and put them on our border with Mexico.

MINOR COLLINSWORTH

Claremont

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The Times has it wrong. We need to stop the flow -- first things first. Then we will have plenty of time to argue about the rest.

JUDY WINICK

Los Angeles