Micah Issist argues that the presence of fences has resulted in immigrants being compelled to enter the country through different, often more desolate and dangerous locations. Consequently, the likelihood of illegal migrants dying during their attempts to enter the country increases. It is undeniable that a wall will not prevent the entry of immigrants and drug dealers. Individuals who engage in such criminal activities are not deterred by a wall. Alternative methods are available for accessing the country, although most of them carry varying degrees of risk and are generally unsafe. However, it is their necessity that drives them to take such actions.
Despite the minimal drug and human trafficking that border walls facilitate, their existence is detrimental as they create family separations and impede the economies of both nations. It has been observed, for instance, that the construction of a wall in Naco, Arizona in 1996 resulted in a 50% reduction in drug trafficking and illegal immigration within a year, as reported by Border Patrol agents. In presenting this data, journalist Alex Rich emphasizes the effectiveness of border walls in curbing illicit activities within border cities.
Another example of the effectiveness of border walls in restricting drug and human trafficking is the data provided by border patrol agents. Since the construction of these walls, agents have apprehended a total of 144,000 aliens, with 11,706 identified as drug dealers. Heather Newton further raises concerns about the risks individuals face when attempting to cross the border, despite the protective function of these walls.
Yes, while they are considered criminals, illegal immigrants are still human beings and their lives are endangered. Despite the fact that border walls help reduce drug and human trafficking, their existence should be called into question due to the separation of families. In San Diego, a journalist witnessed individuals communicating through sign language across the border, underscoring the evident separation experienced by families when the wall was erected. Consequently, numerous individuals are unable to cross between Mexico and the United States or vice versa.
Another example of families being separated is seen when the Berlin Wall was constructed. Families were divided by this government-conceived wall, a tangible manifestation of an abstract concept. The sudden placement of the wall in Berlin in 1961 caught everyone off guard, effectively splitting an entire city into two parts and causing families to fracture.
Angelica Salas of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles argues that these barriers should not exist because they create an economic disadvantage for both countries. Instead of using resources to build these barriers, which could be better allocated towards essential needs such as teacher salaries, police officers, infrastructure, and education materials – all requiring long-term solutions – during times of economic crisis.
Tom Warhol’s aim is to showcase the societal concern over a wall that has a 90% likelihood of being an ineffective barrier against illegal businesses entering the country. This concern arises as education, security, and other crucial matters require funding that is being squandered on this “fence”. Additionally, the Government Accountability Office’s report further emphasizes the economic disadvantage for both countries, stating that $6.5 billion would be required to maintain the fencing over the next two decades.
Thus, it is evident that the fencing and alleged “protection” measures have a direct impact on our incomes, alongside the rising taxes. Consequently, while border walls effectively reduce drug and human trafficking, there are two primary reasons advocating against their existence. Firstly, they lead to the separation of families. Secondly, they result in economic disadvantages for both nations.
Border walls are a costly investment that may not guarantee a solution to prevent illegal immigration and drug trafficking. It is unnecessary to create divisions between friends and neighbors, as trust should prevail in these relationships.
Works Cited
According to Issitt, Micah, and Tom Warhol in their article titled “Counterpoint: Border Walls are Ineffective and Damaging to Native Ecosystems” from the Points of View Reference Center, border walls have been proven to be ineffective and harmful to native ecosystems.
The text states that there are multiple sources discussing the idea of using a wall to protect the U.S. border. One source, Great Neck Publishing, published in 2011, believes that a wall is the best method for protection. Another source, Christian Science Monitor, published an article in 2009 questioning the effectiveness of a border fence despite the billions of dollars spent on it.
