NOTE TO STUDENTS: This is a controversial issue for many Americans. Be polite to those with whom you disagree when discussing these types of issues and always give the other person a chance to explain his/her point of view. Also, learn how to recognize when it is no longer productive to discuss an issue on which you strongly disagree. Be kind to one another. It is a sensitive issue to those affected by it and by those who believe U.S. laws should be enforced.

BEFORE answering the questions, read the “Background” and watch the video under “Resources” below.

1. The first paragraph of a news article should answer the questions who, what, where and when. List the who, what, where and when of this news item. (NOTE: The remainder of a news article provides details on the why and/or how.)

2. What changes to immigration enforcement did DHS Secretary John Kelly direct agency heads to make this week?

3. How did Secretary Kelly explain the reasoning behind the changes?

4. What did a DHS official say about the changes on enforcement?

5. Define “dreamers” and “catch and release”.

6. What did DHS officials emphasize during a conference call with reporters?

7.  Consider the reasons for enforcing current federal immigration law, and the fact that the majority of Americans support it. President Trump is not opposed to legal immigration, but says we should know who is coming into the country, and that we need to stop the out of control flow of drugs coming across our southern border.  Also consider the role of the President of the United States: The President is responsible for the execution and enforcement of the laws created by Congress.

This news article concludes: “During the conference call with reporters, a DHS official said, ‘We’re going to treat everyone humanely and with dignity, but we are going to execute the laws of the United States.’”

Why do you think the media in general portrays the President’s actions to enforce the law as hateful/racist/bigoted/xenophobic?

CHALLENGE QUESTION:
Read the text of President Trump’s executive order: “Border Security and Immigration Enforcement Improvements.”
a) On what authority does President Trump issue these orders?
b) List the reasons he gives for the necessity of building a wall/securing the border.
c) How does this explanation differ from news reports about this issue?
d) Do the actions President Trump authorizes in this order make Americans more safe or less safe? Explain your answer.
e) Ask a parent the same questions. Discuss your answers.