Operative word on immigration: legal

OK, here's the thing regarding immigration: I heard Mr. Ruben Navarrette, who is a syndicated columnist, say that this has been going on for a long, long time. Look at the Jews, the Italians, the Germans, etc.

Well, Mr. Navarrette, here's the difference, which makes me shudder to think that you have not thought about this already: The Jews, the Italians, the Germans, etc. came into our country legally - operative word here legally.

They came over on boats, came to Ellis Island, gave their name, date of birth, where they were from and whatever other information needed. They studied and became very proud citizens of the United States of America.

They got a job or started a company on a dime and a prayer and did what they needed to do to build a better life for themselves and their families.

They did not - and I repeat - did not sneak into our country illegally - operative word here illegally, commit crimes, bring in drugs, pimp underage girls or be deported five times with seven felonies under their belts, come back and kill some innocent person enjoying a nice, sunny vacation day with her dad.

So, Mr. Navarrette, your analogy is so far out in left field - and wrong. And to the people who oppose "Kate's Law" and think it's OK to harbor a felon and let them wander the streets to do whatever they want, here's the answer.

If you don't like the law, change it. In the meantime, obey and follow it.

We absolutely must secure not only our southern borders but all our borders.

And that's my take.

Patty Harmon

Arlington Heights