Few topics are as divisive and complex as the subject of foreign nationals on US soil without authorization. Yet, no matter how one views the issue, all agree the US immigration system is deeply flawed. Join the City Club of Central Oregon on July 21, 11:30am-1pm at St. Charles Center for Health and Learning for a showcase of diverse views on one fundamental aspect of the immigration debate: DEPORTATION.
The law itself is conflicted on the issue of deportation. While federal law clearly defines what constitutes “illegal” immigration status, Oregon statute 181.850 states in the very first line “No law enforcement agency of the State of Oregon or of any political subdivision of the state shall use agency moneys, equipment or personnel for the purpose of detecting or apprehending persons whose only violation of law is that they are persons of foreign citizenship present in the United States in violation of federal immigration laws.”
Simply put, the State of Oregon, along with many others, clearly supports the opinion that being here without authorization does not, by itself, justify prosecution or deportation. Understandably, this dichotomy of law makes it impossible for local law enforcement to take a position that is not strongly criticised by some portion of the community or other.
Where should the line be drawn between deportation and turning a blind eye? Are there other approaches to consider? Where do you stand on the issue?
City Club speakers bring very different experience and expertise to the discussion. We will first hear from Jim Ludwick, Founder of Oregonians for Immigration Reform (OFIR). Ludwick was OFIR’s founding President and remained in that role for 10 years, becoming a noted advocate for stricter regulations and enforcement of immigration laws. He is recognized as a passionate and entertaining speaker.
The second presenter is US Immigration Attorney, Dan Larsson who was born in Sweden in 1962. He graduated from the University of Oregon with a degree in Political and International Studies, receiving his law degree from Seattle University in 1994. He is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association and a frequent speaker around the country on immigration issues.
Reservations: 541-633-7163, www.cityclubofcentraloregon.com
