Beyond the riding skills, there is much to learn about horses, the sport of show jumping, the global equine industry and how government policies affect all of us – at every level. I was thinking about one of my favorite grooms – a quiet type of guy who modeled the best of horsemanship. I could learn just by observation, but he took the time to talk with me, and show me they “why” behind what he did for the horses in his care. Although I grew up with horses at home and learned all the basics – it’s different to care for an elite horse at the top of the sport.
My Spanish was as basic as his English, but we laughed through our conversations. When his work visa expired, he returned to Mexico, hoping for a quick return. Years have passed, and the barn remains quiet without his music or joyful voice. We connect through social media; he can’t get a visa. There are so many others here from around the world, working without documentation and no matter what side of the political field you fall – immigration is a problem, challenge and opportunity all in one.
Because I’ve been working on college applications – I’ve been thinking about all the ways the horse industry fits into the broader landscape of life. Even Emma Lazarus’ poem enshrined on a bronze plaque at the base of The Statue of Liberty applies. A nation of immigrants, we still have not figured out immigration policy more than 100 years later. Immigration issues polarize politics, separates families, and often fails to address the human condition around the world.
We definitely need policies to protect the safety and security of the American people, but in a way that balances promise and opportunity for newcomers into our nation. Our country still evokes images of opportunity and justice. Illegal immigration subverts the law – making social services more expensive in an atmosphere of opposing principles: compassion vs societal demands (in the form of laws). We need policies that welcome new citizens to help build a strong and diverse country and economy. Immigrants who often take essential jobs are often innovators, entrepreneurs and most importantly, strong believers in democracy. They enhance our country in unexpected ways. Immigration policy asks difficult questions that reach into the deepest identity of a person – What does it mean to be a US citizen? What responsibilities and commitments do citizens and documented immigrants share compared to what’s shared by those here illegally? What danger does illegal immigration present? Is the United States responsible for the children and extended families of immigrants brought to the United States illegally? The questions can be painful but must be addressed.
According to the Pew Research Center, eight million undocumented immigrants add substantially to this country’s total workforce. Only five percent of that number are unemployed! California, Texas, Florida, New York, New Jersey and Illinois accounted for 59% of illegal immigrants in 2014. This is a problem, challenge and opportunity that affects the horse industry directly and it’s worth a discussion.