The Ease of Illegal Residence in America and the Role of Fake Documents

Living illegally in America is not a straightforward process, but the ease with which many manage to do so is alarming. Contrary to popular belief, it is not erroneous to assume that only immigrants violate laws to live in the US illegally. The sheer number of undocumented individuals within the country is staggering, and the methods employed by them often rely on fake documents, making it easier for them to navigate life in the nation.

Understanding the Scale of the Problem

By some estimates, there are between 10 to 20 million undocumented individuals living in the United States. This number represents a significant portion of the population, around 6%, or approximately 1 in every 16 people. To put this into perspective, if you are in a room with 16 other people, chances are one of them is undocumented. A baseball stadium with 40,000 spectators could easily have 2,000 to 3,000 undocumented individuals. This prevalence underscores the magnitude of the issue.

The Role of Fake Documents in Illegal Residence

One of the primary challenges for undocumented individuals is the requirement for a valid ID. From obtaining a job to accessing healthcare services, documentation plays a crucial role. Many undocumented individuals circumvent these barriers by using fake documents, including Social Security numbers (SSNs) that they either forge or obtain through fraudulent means. Even if they don't have a legal SSN, the lack of verification procedures leaves a significant loophole for employment.

Employers often don’t need to verify the SSNs they receive, and even if they do, the process is both time-consuming and costly. Most businesses choose not to undergo the verification process, as it is not legally mandatory. This inaction, combined with widespread acceptance, contributes to the ease with which undocumented individuals can find employment.

The Urgency of Addressing the Issue

Considering the scale and the methods employed, one can draw parallels between the influx of undocumented individuals and an invasion. For instance, while 20,000 Russian soldiers going to war in Ukraine might be considered an invasion, the infiltration of 20 million undocumented individuals into the US is equally concerning. The current situation requires a strategic and urgent response.

A primary solution to address this issue is to require employers to actually verify the SSNs of their employees, rather than merely having them on file. If this were implemented, it would likely result in a significant decline in the number of undocumented individuals in the country. Implementing such a policy could potentially resolve the issue within a few months, as the lack of legal documentation would become glaring and employers would be compelled to take action.

Reflections on Public Perception and Attitude

Interestingly, some people believe that living illegally in America is easier than in other countries, possibly due to a culture that tends to overlook minor non-compliance. In the US, there is often a willingness for others to mind their own business and not intervene if someone is not causing problems. This complacency plays a role in the ease with which undocumented individuals can navigate their lives.

However, it is imperative that this complacency gives way to a more proactive stance. Addressing the issue of illegal residence requires a unified effort to secure borders, verify credentials, and ensure that our legal frameworks effectively protect the integrity of our communities and workforce.