Fixing the Dream Act

In the article “Fix the Dream Act so it can work,” Alberta Phillips from the Austin American-Statesman, argues that the dream act is a good idea, but the standards are too low. As it stands now, illegal immigrants who enter the country before the age of 16, finished high school or obtained a G.E.D., showed “good moral character,” and complete two years of college or military service have the chance to obtain their citizenship. Although the idea is a good one, Phillips does not believe that this is enough. She believes that the immigrants should have to do more, particularly when it comes to serving the community. Instead of forcing some to join the military, why not have them do other activities like habitat for humanity or volunteering at a reputable charity? She also believes that maybe a four year education might be better, but then later states that some hard working immigrants don’t have the desire to attend college, but should have the same chance of obtaining citizenship which leads her thoughts back to the public service requirement. Phillips is trying to reach out to those that might be for or against the Dream Act, and seems to try and cover both perspectives, although making it pretty clear she is for it BUT with certain revisions. I agree with Phillips that there must be more of a challenge for obtaining citizenship, one that includes public service indefinitely as well as other test, for example an English test. However, at the same time we must make it fair and take into consideration that the people that came here before they were 16 didn’t have much of a choice, but try to see their improvement within the United States. It can not be an easy ride, but still needs to be fair and consistent.