The Houston Chronicle, a leading media outlet in the Democratic-voting city of Houston, has issued a scathing Christmas editorial article protesting the latest crackdown on immigrants crossing the US-Mexico border without authorization in Texas. The article’s headline is a clear reference to the nativity, asking how Texas Governor Greg Abbott would treat Mary and Joseph at the border.
Governor Greg Abbott has poured funds into a Texas program called Operation Lone Star, which has taken border enforcement increasingly into state hands. The move is seen as a direct challenge to the Biden administration’s immigration policies. Immigration law enforcement and processing at the border is the power and responsibility of the US federal government, but Abbott’s move appears to be challenging this authority.
The recent law passed in Texas gives all Texas police sweeping powers to arrest people alleged to have entered the US illegally and empowers local judges to order their expulsion back across the US-Mexico border. Critics argue that this gives state authorities too much power and raises concerns about potential racial profiling.
The Houston Chronicle article draws attention to the fact that two thousand years ago, a young family became refugees. The editorial points out that the refugees of today, seeking safety and a better life, are no different from Mary and Joseph in their needs and their humanity.
Critics of Abbott’s policies argue that they are cruel and inhumane. The Houston Chronicle’s article is just one of many criticisms aimed at the governor and his administration’s actions at the border. As the debate continues, it is clear that the issue of immigration and border control is one that will continue to shape American politics and society for years to come.
As the state of Texas takes an increasingly hard-line approach to immigration, it remains to be seen how other states and the federal government will react. The debate over immigration policy in the US is complex and multifaceted, with no easy solutions. However, as the holiday season reminds us, it is important to remember our shared humanity and to treat all people with dignity and compassion.
