Some Hispanic students at St. Pauls High School have joined the immigration debate. The students, in an English as a Second Language class, recently wrote an open letter expressing their views on the topic. The letter was a project after a class about immigration reform. Teacher Morris Cardenas used news articles to get the students talking. He said students should be aware of what’s happening in the world and in their neighborhood. “I also want them to be aware that there are two sides to every argument,” he said. “Also, that they need to understand that democracy means you can state your opinion in a manner that is educated. That they have a right to voice their opinion whether they are from here or not from here. Democracy does not know borders. Democracy is a human right.”

Cardenas’ goal was for the students to feel comfortable stating their opinions on issues that affect them. “Some kids act as if they could care less, and then there are some kids who are very active and want to know what is in store for them now and in their future,” he said. The students read the articles then discussed the pros and cons. “One thing I have expressed to the kids is their rights,” Cardenas said. “I tell them: ‘As far as U.S. citizens’ rights, you have none. Coming over here by the means most of you have, you broke the law. But you are guaranteed civil rights.’ “If I am an educator, I cannot just tell them, ‘This isn’t right.’ I have to explain to them why this is happening and to present to them the other side of the coin. If I don’t tell them why others disagree, I am not being fair.” The students, all from Mexico, shared their views about arrests at Smithfield Packing Co. and proposed immigration laws. More than two dozen illegal immigrants were arrested at the hog-processing plant in Tar Heel nearly two months ago. Many face deportation.

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