"I hope they talk about immigration because until now one of the most important issues in the country has been overlooked in two presidential debates and one vice-presidential debate," Luna said.
Luna joined other local Latin Americans yesterday decrying minimal attention being afforded what many had believed to be a significant issue prior to McCain and Obama securing their party nominations.
"I understand that it's an issue that could determine the election, but that's no reason to overlook it. There are approximately 12 million undocumented immigrants living in limbo here. It's unfair that it's not part of the national discussion," Luna lamented.
Jose Gonzalez called no talk about immigration a part of the nation's political panorama that can change in a moment's notice.
"Right now, the major talk is about the economy and survival. I understand how that happens because if you don't have a job or house, then what's there to talk about?" he said. "Everybody is in survival mode right now, just trying to get by. It's a matter of priority."
Gonzalez placed immigration down the ladder regarding importance below energy issues and the Iraq War.
"But should it be part of the conversation? Of course, he said. "But it's too tough of a topic because both candidates know that where they stand could cause trouble.
|
|
Roberto Hernandez said that fear of losing places millions of "foreign nationals" at risk.
"Make no mistake, immigration is a major issue. It's tender and problematic, but America needs to know where McCain and Obama stand on this issue. I'm just hoping that it comes up tonight," Hernandez said, adding that "it's unlikely."
"I know that America is going through some difficult economic times but the immigration issue is connected to the economy problem. We can't really talk about the economic future of the U.S. without knowing what status these 12 million people will have."
Sonia Orense assured that no discussion about immigration represents a planned strategy of both parties.
"In the debates it's like there is a plan for immigration never to be mentioned while in the one (town hall) setting nobody in the crowd seemed concerned about it," Orense said.
"But that doesn't mean that it's not important. I know it's a tough thing to talk about but I'm hoping that McCain and Obama are forced to lay out their plan on immigration."
Luna said the Latino community should accept partial responsibility.
"In many cases we lack the political and social savvy to move this topic forward. It's up to the Latino community to push the need for immigration reform," Luna explained.
"We can learn a lot from the civil rights struggle when people banded together for change. That movement included tremendous church input and support, something that the Latino community currently lacks. We have some growing to do in the political arena but just give us some time."
