Actions are illegal, never people | Jose Antonio Vargas | TEDxMidAtlantic

Jose Antonio Vargas, an award-winning multimedia storyteller, is the founder of Define American, a campaign that seeks to elevate the conversation around immigration. Born in the Philippines, Vargas immigrated to the United States at age 12. Stunning the media and political circles and attracting world-wide coverage, Vargas wrote the groundbreaking essay, "My Life as an Undocumented Immigrant," for the New York Times Magazine in the summer of 2011. A year later, he was the author (and subject) of a cover story for TIME magazine headlined "We are Americans - just not legally."
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[@poshcat2833]

I don't understand how some people can just blatantly trash talk and call this guy an "illegal piece of shit"....I mean come on, this is someone who worked hard and have an award winning contribution in the field of journalism. I'm pretty sure there's a bunch of so called, self proclaimed"americans" out there who are more of a menace to this country than anything. Kudos to you Mr. Vargas for having the courage to tackle an issue that neither the past administration nor the present has resolved

[@jordanwendt3359]

TRUMP 2016!!! BUILD A WALL!!

[@poshcat2833]

@@VictoriousJia I’m a legal immigrant myself, went through the whole process and even spent a good amount of money to hire an immigration lawyer to become a naturalized citizen. Having said that, I don’t rub it on other peoples faces how unfortunate they are to not have the same opportunities as I have….the privilege to have been given the chance, the financial capacity to spend and be able to migrate legally. I don’t condone illegal stay and whatever else it entails but I don’t like judgmental people like you who speaks so highly of oneself and spits out very degrading comments which I don’t think is necessary. Just put it this way….did you really think these people would prefer to live that way if they have an option to legalize their stay? Just be thankful that you’re here and able to live life freely and probably make a good living while a number of people who strive to build a better life in the states face uncertainty each day not knowing where they’re headed.

[@spaceangel6945]

@@jordanwendt3359 If 2016 taught me anything it was I really needed another reaction beside anger at what I was seeing. Instead of falling down the rabbit hole of hate I found empathy. Turns out virtue is not some kind of miracle, it's simple daily practice. Check out; Arlie Russell Hochschild professor of Sociology, UC Burkley "STRANGERS IN THEIR OWN LAND: Anger and Mourning on the American Right: - a call to empathy, to focus on building bridges to unite this land not build walls to hide behind.

[@redrose8214]

I'm in college and we are reading Notes from Undocumented Citizen by Antonio Vargas. We have been doing assignments about Antonio and the immigration system.

[@emmanuelmeza7532]

same, my parents are immigrants and reading the book really gives everyone an idea of what is really going on and what its like, including me.

[@lronhayden]

Same here

[@highspeedhayden]

same that's the only reason why im here

[@nyc1530]

People like you are the reasons democracy in the US will always prevail. Good luck and continue the work you've started.

[@ZamoraMediaUSA]

People confuse his subject matter, he's not talking about border hoppers, yes that is conciously an illegal act, thought for which those people are unaware of the severity of the crime they're comitting and are acting out of pure desperation to leave the terrible conditions in which most live. Instead Jose Vargas is voicing the helplesness in which people who were brought here as children against their will are in at the moment unable to "fix" their legal status, unless they go through the very few options there actually exist such as marriage to a citizen and/or family petitions. He making it clear that these people only know this country as their own, and going back to a foreign land to "get in line" is an inconceivable option for a majority of them, one being the language barrier primarily, also the huge cultural gap between the American society that they have always know and a third world country. He is advocating for these young "Americans" that without will of their own and by force ended up here without proper paperwork, not adult immigrants who chose to force their way in. We can't cluster these two separate groups as one. This is what the president's executive order directly adresses.

[@luisecobian3691]

You are sort of stuck in conundrum you are neither American nor from the country that your from

[@syn707]

Then we should remedy the situation by sending them back to their country and their nuclear families are. And perhaps their parents will follow them. Problem solved!

[@lukegsr95]

So what ? Who cares ! Whats wrong making it hard to enter this country look at how hard it is to become a japanese citizen or a canadian citizen.

[@jamespalmer4945]

@@lukegsr95exactly! These people love to pull on heart strings. But a nation without laws and borders is not a nation

[@caden3143]

im filipino born in america and my dad was very lucky to immmigrate legally

[@aldofigueroa1868]

what an amazing courageous man Vargas is. We live at the beginning of a new human rights revolution, where humans can live where they want to live their dream. Not only America but the whole world should look up to him.

[@fullthrottlealways]

That was a joke I hope. Omfg this guy is such an arrogant, entitled pos. He makes our blood boil buddy. His time is coming, believe it.

[@spregged7231]

Thank you Mr. Vargas. You are an incredibly courageous man. I hope more people take your story to heart and learn more about how immigration and the legal process of gaining legal status REALLY works in the United States of America.

[@harish2309]

You can literally see his hands shaking at the beginning. Damn, it's not surprising though. It happens to me when I speak to a group of 10 people, imagine 1000s of them.

[@hayaglamazonluxe]

I hate the people who are laughing so much as if his plight is funny. I feel for his situation

[@taxfrauddotcom]

You sir, are brilliant and incredibly brave. Thank you for this.

[@XXX-kl5op]

I’m in six grade and I’m doing speech and debate

[@DrakeDragsaw]

I'm in 11th and doing this right now lol.

[@agma6171]

I'm a french student in highschool and I must work on this krkrkrkr

[@matildeayala281]

I’m in college and we are doing this right now

[@annateves8944]

Love all your facts n figures

[@thekingofmoney2000]

He's Filipino by the way...not Mexican. Many filipinos have spanish names because the Philippines is a former Spanish colony.

[@migrantologosmigrantologos9031]

BRAVO!

[@alexebner2351]

MR. Wolf is the best!!!

[@veramann]

In 1986, the US govt allowed 3 millions illegal immigrants to stay in the US legally. Now, we have 11 illegal immigrants more living in the US, and about 40% of these people over stay their visa.

[@gruntingcargo9935]

and literally your point is?

[@hectorthealchemist]

Storytelling is a powerful thing.

[@KarenMonge693]

What an inspirational talk, I have hope that this nation as a whole will pass immigration reform and that more "citizens" can inform themselves before writing ignorant comments

[@jordanwendt3359]

TRUMP 2016!! BUILD A WALL!!

[@angele1966007]

NO WAY JOSE, WE DID THAT WITH REAGAN AND THE RESULT WAS 20 000 000 MORE ILLEGALS

[@csdimitris]

Send them back!!!

[@francesstewart5307]

So many like yourself overlook the cost of illegals cost taxpayers cause to our government, they will ruin America's economy in welfare an health cost.

[@ashutoshsharmash]

I'm a legal immigrant to the US, I pay my taxes and work hard and yet in most college applications or even work, I get overlooked because 'diversity' dictates that children of illegal aliens and illegal aliens should get more preference than me. I followed the rules and yet I'm the one who's penalized?

[@alexebner2351]

Mr. Wolf is the best!!!!

[@vettech3086]

Amen Jose !! You make excellent points here ! Keep tellin the truth bro !!

[@sinserj0stin362]

thank you

[@HASONRAZ]

Mr. Vargas, we know all that in secret. People are not illigal, it is their action. If somebody cross border out of desperation, they are not illegal, they are refugees. But we are living in a society, a culture, made by our own action, forces us to believe on many things about immigration & of course of many others, that we must be fearful of something which has not been resolved for decades by the law makers. Out of fear, we will say things like "illigals", " anchor babies" "job takers" etc. etc. out of fear we will follow people who are even more fearful (& loud). So, what can you do? Well, be louder. Talk direct. Show no fear... so we learn not to fear. And more importantly do NOT give up!! Or else, our fearful society will forever make our great nation, this sleeping giant sleeping. ......forever!

[@sesamemomsesamemom9602]

HASONRAZ n

[@alexebner2351]

Mr.Wolf is the best!!

[@Schmacks]

Here for facing history class

[@BigBoy74X]

Wow after watching this video and reading comments. I cant believe how much hate is still around. OMG.

[@joseantoniogarciarivas8042]

Is a programmed hate friend, ppl is kind at heart, just takes some unlearning.

[@cecilhilrey]

yes your correct and i do agree with you [e-mail]

[@carinm.bonifacino]

I have been following Jose and his story since he "came out" as undocumented many years ago now. I keep a copy of the Time magazine with him on the cover in my nightstand drawer. Jose and the Dreamers who shout "Undocumented and Unafraid" are my heros. Plain and simple. Their bravery and courage to tell their story and ask for this country to recognize them and give them a legitimate place in society never ceases to amaze me. Jesus sided with the poor, the oppressed, the people at the margins of society. Those who cannot see that Jesus would come back as an undocumented immigrant, if he came back at all, don't know who Jesus really was or the point he was trying to make about people with money, influence and power versus people who have none. --

[@CHIMELDA98]

I do think that their needs to be compromise between both parties but I do see where your coming from and I respect that. I guess why this is such a touchy subject!

[@aliceleeeeeeeeeeeeee]

Thank you Jose.

[@josezamarripa7289]

Want see my document

[@jdvgal]

Dude, he is an Asian. from the Philippines

[@LuinkMedia]

Fear no more, we shall overcome.

[@utubecenseorstruth]

Hey I am a southerner who went to school with people of all races. Only intergrated school in alabama at the time 30% black 60% white. It is just easy to scapegoat southerners. As far as anti-black racism they tend to be real racist up north. Overall though I see what you are saying. I think religion though and love of america can bring people together.

[@tboned70]

Much Respect and Many Blessings,..............a Total Disrespect today in the United States is that the Border and Policies are used towards the Native Americans, the actual Original Americans,......Go Figure,....!!!?

[@asianfacility5682]

Great lecture! Vaya Con Dios!

[@silviadeleon118]

Its sad to see people scope so low on these comments.

[@mariavelasquez4856]

+Chris Reed Ignorance and hatred will get you nowhere.

[@fullthrottlealways]

+Maria Velasquez tell that to this illegal fuck. He's ignorant of the fact that he is a GUEST here and he shouldn't even be here. His time on the lam as an illegal alien is running short. Trump means it

[@fullthrottlealways]

In my hometown (Austin) the deportation forces have been kicking in and we American citizens are overjoyed to see the rule of law being upheld. It's quite simple: illegals have willingly invaded and defied Federal law. We are now enforcing existing law. If they didn't want to be deported, they shouldn't have invaded in the first place. Vargas better be sleeping with one eye open, we American citizens have had more than a bellyful of this guy pontificating and lecturing us on how we should enact our own laws. Adios Amigo.

[@lancelotxavier9084]

Ignorance is bliss. You must be a very happy person Silvia. I feel great sympathy for the victims of Latinos. Which are many and often.

[@TristanM2013]

Anyone that pays taxes and works is contributing to the country not just sucking off the government. And you could just try to understand that many who immigrate illegally are just trying to find a basic happy human life and anyone in their shoes would do exactly what they are doing and vilifying the entire population of illegal immigrants disregards the complicated reasons as to why they came to America and in many cases HAD to come to america to escape some horror

[@robertmasina4610]

Try saying "actions are illegal, not people" in a number of other countries in this world.

[@tboned70]

Why,... It's none of our business wat others do from afar,......right,...?

[@gabriellesimoneau9958]

that was a really, really good speach

[@analemus8296]

This was wonderful!

[@scotta8920]

And their actions, in being here against our laws and outside of our proper system for immigration, are illegal. This 'people are never illegal' is quite literally the stupidest game of semantics I've ever heard. It's not only incorrect it is intentionally deceptive and manipulative. The dialogue surrounding the immigration debate needs to be more humane and creating a sense of dignity in the narrative matters. BUT, recognizing the humanity and meaningfulness of the individuals that are here illegally does not mean we simply abandon our laws. EVERY country on the planet today has immigration laws and no one else apologizes for enforcing said laws. Poor communities and communities of color are directly negatively impacted by loose immigration enforcement that allows unchecked migration of unskilled laborers. When Barbara Jordan called for legal immigration to be slashed by half and for illegal immigration to be eliminated entirely, no one screamed and cried about racism. Nor did they cry foul when Cesar Chavez attacked illegal immigration as a threat to the American citizens and legal immigrants he fought to defend. Hmmmm.... Selective faux outrage?

[@kelseyhetherington8114]

The comment section is completely horrific. For those of you reading on, brace yourself and know that you are valid and not alone. I hope that one day this pattern of dehumanization and immorality will discontinue.

[@MrBillygoat77]

Handcuff this arrogant race baiter and charge him with federal crimes regarding his fake social security card, FF's he is a criminal in the eyes of the law, ARREST HIM WITHOUT PREJUDICE.

[@101baztardo101]

I am sometimes shocked to see that so many people don't get the real point. This is about being humans, about being simply good and helping other people. Interesting enough so many of these people are so religious and hateful at the same time.

[@derekreed658]

I'll start with the title of this KZbin page; those words are also briefly seen on the background screen behind the speaker. Try a Google search for "illegal operators" or "illegal miners" or maybe some similar phrases; such phrasing seems to be accepted, so "illegal immigrant" is not an anomolous phrase. The English language sometimes allows that type of phrasing, even if operators/miners/immigrants/people are never intrinsically illegal. For both those migrants with papers and those without, the real issue is this: some people care about violations (of laws or other government rules) that enabled the migrants we're talking about to reside in the country. And those people often don't care whether the migrant is blameless because someone else (human traffickers, parents of DREAMers, etc) caused the violations. He claims that the term "illegal" is demeaning or pejorative. Even if that could be proven, we could ask: why do those migrants deserve to be spared from that kind of term, given those violations I just mentioned? The migrants usually are willing beneficiaries of those violations, and often will commit more violations in order to stay in the USA. Activists are demanding that people stop referring to the migrants as "illegal". Then they should suggest something much more accurate, something that captures the fact that those violations occurred (because the violations are what people care about and are the defining characteristic of the migrants we are talking about). Why should people settle for a misleading term like "undocumented" just to avoid the alleged possibility of stigmatization? We could say "unauthorized" instead of "illegal". But then people could just say, "No human being is unauthorized." So I guess that would solve nothing. The inaccuracy of the term "undocumented" undermines the cause of migrant rights, because it creates a perception that activists are trying to mislead or to dictate beliefs by dictating which words are permissible to use. Would "unaccepted immigrants" be a better label? They have not been accepted by the US government's usual immigration process, and many citizens don't accept them either. The controversy is about acceptance by the receiving country's systems and people, not about documentation. This is true even if a migrant somehow can manage to avoid breaking any law, regulation, or administrative rule. Alternatively, how about using "unlawfully present" in place of "illegal" in our terminology?

[@lmdeboom]

He deserved to stay. He contributes immensely to the American society.

[@estebanerm]

Todos los inmigarntes Ilegales deberian de salir de EU, me gustaria ver que hacen sin ello, si todos los ciudadanos se drogan, y nadie los quiere asi, que pasaria, ahora que el pais esta casi destruido, quien lo podra contruir?

[@utubecenseorstruth]

Dont get me wrong I dont like things about the country to but it is the best. For what its worth if not for the welfare state illegals indireclty take advantage of like with their kids I would be more open minded. I dont have a problem with people coming here, but they need to contribute and sign the damn guestbook and if we say you cant come in you then you dont.

[@latinhero1818]

How did his grandfather get the fake green card? There seems to be a lot of important, unanswered questions that stems from that little detail.

[@jlifesthings1368]

We all people I'm Christian and I believed we all brothers and sisters no hate through countrys I think every has a precious culture ❤I'm Mexican- American and my parents are from Mexico and standing proud

[@debbies9838]

Thank you for sharing! ! The truth will set you free! Is in the bible!

[@rctteensma]

You call a person who robs, a robber; a person who murders, a murderer. So why would someone who is here illegally, not be called illegal?

[@grdn02100]

I like this guy, I do but do we hear one word come out of his mouth about seeing an immigration attorney - which I'm sure by now he can afford and taking the steps to becoming legal or the minute that happens he loses his platform ergo his "15 minutes." If his Grandfather thought he'd obtained a real green card for him or whatever the documentation was than I think he has a good case - better than most actually. He's right about Alabama - they out Arizona'ed Arizona yes they did and one impact is some of the farmers there are whining who will pick our crops now.... my response was how'd they get picked before the illegals showed up in northern Alabama 6 or 7 years ago, but it reminded me of something... Didnt California used to have a program that allowed people to come from Mexico during harvest time, work, get paid and then return to Mexico? Like a guest workers visa or migrant workers visa I forget the actual term but what was wrong with that!? I mean they wouldn't have to worry about looking over their shoulder ever ten minutes for the Alabama state police to show up. The workers would be happy the farmers would be happy - theres probably even a tax incentive in there somewhere too. I don't know..... I am definitely against people being here illegally that is ipso facto and you don't have to be an expert in constitutional or civil law to understand that, BUT I see nothing wrong with this country issuing a type of visa that would allow them to come and work seasonally and return when the work is done and come again the next year.

[@tifi29]

Didn't you listen to what he said? There is no process to becoming legal even if he had the help of an immigration attorney, there just isn't. And even if he left the US and tried to come back legally, he would still not be able to return legally to the US.

[@grdn02100]

Baloney! Becoming legal doesn't necessarily mean citizenship either, it means the legal right to be in this country and by my count he should have about 8.

[@alcd6333]

Very passionate, sincere, and completely misguided. No one's denying anyone's humanity, but people cannot just sneak across the border and expect to assimilate and be accepted by those here. It undermines our entire immigration procedure and is unfair to those who are here legally - as citizens or legal aliens (my mother immigrated here legally and became a US citizen; she completely opposed illegal border crossings). Arguing over this issue is ridiculous as all countries want to secure their borders. Fortunately, the US has the resources to do so effectively. And yes, that means building a wall between us and Mexico: it will significantly reduce the problem we currently face. And the fact that we have to shut down the government to get this done is absurd. And quit calling them "undocumented immigrants." They're illegal aliens - tired of it being toned down to be more PC!

[@jonathanpina7264]

Al Cd how is his personal experience “completely misguided” ? and words are powerful, that is why it is important to use terms that are accurate

[@sulizu0186]

So people from other countries are not just foreigners but also aliens ? Are they not one of us HUMANS BEINGS ?

[@martthesling]

Oh, I get it. If someone murders or steals it's the action that is criminal not the person.

[@CHIMELDA98]

He's not trying to promote or glam up the fact of being an "illegal" He is trying to show you the struggles they have to go through because their PARENTS NOT THEM decided to bring them to this country illegally. He is fighting for the rights of the hardworking youngsters who have grown inside this country and love it. He wants them to get the citizenship they rightfully deserve.

[@clearwavepro100]

Unlawful is still illegal, because Illegal is also unlawful. Please be careful with any word juxtaposition or meaning indirection lest it be deemed as intentional misdirection.

[@Toolgdskli]

So do you think hundreds of millions of people in various countries from Africa, to Asia to Latin America who want to but have not got the chance to immigrate to the USA should be supported with or without documentation? And what about if they all come to the Phillipine (although unlikely) ? Are you guys willing to accept millions upon miillions migrants from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Rwanda, Botswana, etc ?

[@LeoWang28]

That question does not reflect reality. No country is able to absorb all immigrants. The process is controlled to ensure resources are well used. It is a lot easier to simply fix the situation of immigrants already here. Someone is making money out of this which is why it never gets fixed.

[@utubecenseorstruth]

Lets say i agree with you 100% dont punish the kids for what parents ( or grandparents do) will you encourage democrats to abandon all affirmative action and set asides? Also if we let vargas stay that is one thing but grandpa commited a serious crime and never paid for it. What if it was a terrorist. Here is a secret. I would support amnesty, but it does not help latinos helped obama get elected twice. Thanks for reminding me there are people involved. I honestly forget

[@MrBolas33]

You're still here?! Trump was just elected. Shouldn't you be gettin yer shit packed? (No pun intended). LMAO!!!

[@Nitrotix1]

He actually just published a book and was on national news.

[@SlugCatLife]

Am I the only one that finds it pretty ironic, that Americans were themselves at one point Immigrants :)

[@mariasoto8600]

Agnius Balabonas Not only that, they were also invaders

[@nottoday.9503]

Nope. I was born here. FOAD.

[@Schmacks]

@@nottoday.9503 are you Native American? Just because you were born in America doesn’t mean your family many years ago are American. I was born in America. But my great grandpa moved here from Poland.

[@leonuy3944]

A lot of Filipinos who lived in the USA or married to American citizens went back to the Philippines becoming successful, happy and contributing much to Philippine society. Why can't he do the same? He is here ILLEGALLY and his parents committed FRAUD. So Mr. Vargas, stop playing the game as if you are the victim here! More so, his mother is in the Philippines. He can take care of her while climbing up the ladder. He will surely be successful there in the Philippines because of his many accolades here in the United States. BTW, Comprehensive Immigration Reform does not mean amnesty! Allowing people to come here in the USA through a merit-based system (just like how they do in Canada, Australia, New Zealand) is the real immigration reform and not chain migration nor open borders.

[@armandocedillo2218]

National policy is generally not developed or informed by mawkish naval-gazing. Philippine national Jose Antonio Vargas is in fact an illegal alien and should be re-intrgrated into his country of origin. Without laws backed by force or system of governance applied to all you invite anarchy, disintegration and cynicism. Deporting unlawfully present foreign nationals may not be nice or sentimental but it is just, prudent and fair.

[@Ma.ri.02]

Why so? What does deporting him back going to do? Will it help you sleep at night? I’m just curious. He’s more of an American than most white folks, pays his taxes and is a pretty talented man. Not to mention loves his country. I feel as if it is quite unfair for someone who was a literal child and brought to the US without knowing he was in a the middle of a crime to be deported and face the consequences of not even his actions, because again, he was just 16 when he found out. Even I wouldn’t know what to do or what would be the right thing or anything at all, I’d be terrified. I Think they should definitely give some sort of path to residency to children who were brought undocumented without a say.

[@armandocedillo2218]

@@Ma.ri.02 Mr. Vargas is an unauthorized alien. There is no reason for him to be here. Besides, the Philippines needs him far more than we do.

[@tamelamcghee1458]

Mr. Vargas should have been welcome to return to his motherland, and try again via legal avenues. This would have been noble.

[@lmdeboom]

It is not that simple. If he returns if he will be blacklisted and not be allowed to enter the US for at least 10 years. There would not be a guarantee that he could return.

[@roger8654]

i agree with you buddy, youre here to stay

[@angele1966007]

YEA, TO STAY IN A PRISSION ON HIS WAY TO PHILLIPINS

[@CHIMELDA98]

I do agree that there are a few bad ones in the bunch but aren't there always a few "bad ones?" And who knows maybe the bad ones are raising some great kids? then you have to separate families with feelings and hopes and dreams. Its kind of hard to believe that people are willing to separate families just because they don't have a piece of paper to prove they are citizens? You know being a citizen doesn't automatically make you a "good person." Its no the paper that makes but who you are.

[@josezamarripa7289]

Look I. Don.'t know ho you are I. Goin to answer. I. Am. A. American ziitycen I am from french

[@CHIMELDA98]

But you are ignoring the fact that he grew up here if your still willing to send him to a country totally foreign to him! That is like sending an animal from the zoo to the wild, he wouldn't survive. Why are you so willing to take away peoples happiness and future? Thats cruel. And seriously man I cant really take you seriously when you cant even type correctly. Be a little more human. No one has ever stuck to the rules why is this an exception? And again they are NOT cockroaches they're HUMANS.

[@nottoday.9503]

My ancestors obeyed the rules.

[@CHIMELDA98]

what if they entered the country "legally" and the only illegal thing they did was stay?

[@sdushdiu]

And NO ONE is against legal Immigrants. Follow the rules and you are welcome. Ignore the rules and come here expecting the benefits of the programs and laws and you are not welcome.

[@3moTink3rb3ll]

I Bet YALL LOVE GUNS

[@Discovery2381]

Hi,did you take the English composition 1?can you help me answer some questions one the essay of my life as an undocumented immigrant? Questions like what was the purpose of the essay,the genre...

[@biffalobull2335]

If federal law isn’t important, than neither are lesser things like stop signs and mandatory liability insurance Never understood this type of civics lesson for new arrivals

[@CHIMELDA98]

well the reason i say they vote for him because he is black is because they feel somewhat of a bond with him because he is part of the "minority group" in our society. They feel this bond because of the oppression they receive. But I do agree with you and I'm glad to find a conservative who isn't blinded into choosing between two rather ignorant and stubborn political parties. For the better of this country compromise must happen. :)

[@johnmirage4508]

He's motive is good at least for those undocumented immigrants. But... he himself cannot deny the fact that he was illegally immigrated by his family. IMHO, a mistake cannot correct another mistake. He should do the right thing. Go back to the Philippines and apply for an immigrant status LEGALLY like the rest of Filipinos do. He is not an American, no matter how much tax he has paid over the years of illegally staying in USA. If he really wants to be a legal immigrant or legal American citizen, then he should correct his family's mistake and do things legally. His family knew the consequences they will face when they commit an illegal act against US immigration law, so instead of whining about rights and all, he and they should face these consequences. He may not be a bad guy but everything was wrong to begin with. Your good motive is just provoking other people to migrate illegally because they know they can get away with any consequences. I agree that we have rights to live as human being and equal, but there also rules and laws that we need to follow.

[@DivineHyperion]

This. Tell that to the bleeding hearts who get suckered in with his sob story.

[@utubecenseorstruth]

I see your point. For what it is worth I never really cared as much about illegal immigration until the support of the community for Obama. I fail to see how mostly latino people who tend to be conservative and catholic can support an abortionist among other things. If latinos were supporting conservatives I WOULD MARCH FOR THE DREAM ACT and I will be the first conservative that will probalby admit that.

[@johnnyfive9815]

Can I go to the Philippines and buy a car and drive or buy property with no repercussions? That's a legitimate question. If someone could answer that for me I'd be grateful

[@Leo-jt3tc]

Are you implying that only the US has undocumented people? You are funny!!!

[@nottoday.9503]

@@Leo-jt3tc No, he's implying that the USA is not the only nation with immigration laws. .

[@240sharvey]

I'm better!! then legal immigration.

[@HatRatt]

He asks what are WE (American citizens) going to do, how are we going to help them? OMG, go ask MEXICO, CHINA, AUSTRALIA or whatever country your parents brought you from and dropped you here so you could get into the good schools and learn English or get a job so you can (like a little slave) send the money back to your relatives.

[@jonathanswhtx]

I LOVE THIS GUY I AM DACA STUDENT. MY ENGLISH PROFESSOR MADE ME WRITE A PAPER ONE OF HIS EXCERPTS.

[@whitenoise7980]

So his parents and his grandparents worked together to illegally bring him here and now he has the nerve to complain about the United States. Maybe this is harsh, but after listening to his story, I still want him deported. Everything is connected and giving to one person means you have to take from another. I can't blame people for seeking a better life, but they can't blame me for wanting to protect my home. America needs to stop running around the world trying to solve its many problems, we need to take care of ourselves.

[@luisecobian3691]

Cause America is fucking up so many countries and yet you bitch when people of said country you destroyed want to come here.the U.S. Got what it deserved let me list a few of the counties the USA intervened panama chile Cuba Iraq Afghanistan Rhodesia South Africa Vietnam ect want immigrants to stop coming simple stop meddling in other countries business.

[@luisecobian3691]

***** nope it was the USA with Henry Kissinger

[@onyia2409]

You clearly didn't even listen to his talk

[@valuecalc]

luise, oh, boo-hoo. Life is rough.

[@emilsyvertsen1993]

when did he complain, because i must have missed it

[@CraigCastanet]

i have to agree with Sam. I sympathize with people that want to come here, but it must be done legally. too many people don't respect the rule of law. if these "illegals" found squatters in their home one day, i think they might understand that the illegal squatters should be removed from their home, not given amnesty. they ought to try to fix their country, which starts with a constitution which recognizes individual rights and, sorry, the rule of law.

[@CHIMELDA98]

Well that would make sense (without the harsh words) IF he was an adult coming into this country illegally, but he wasn't. He was a child who had no choice BUT to come to the United States. he grew up here, this is not a foreign country to him this is his HOME. You cant just go around assuming that every illegal is the same and has the same life story that's ignorant. but your right in one aspect they should try to better their countries, but its no piece of cake sir keep that in mind as well.

[@TheAnonymousGabe]

“People aren’t illegal. Their actions are.” You can be a baby all you want about what words are used. At the end of the day, learn how to obey the damn law; and you won’t have a problem.

[@highspeedhayden]

So who else is here from a college assignment lol

[@russ5064]

so all I got from this is that I can take the chance and go rob a bank and hopefully not get caught keep the money for a few years. and then I can spend it and tell everyone how I got it and it should be fine no consequences.

[@Brandon-lw1wx]

Sure actions are illegal and when people do those illegal things we have punishment for them.

[@CHIMELDA98]

Yeah I guess to generalize racism to a certain part of the country would be unfair. I am a spiritual person myself not wanting to tie myself to one religion but i do think that hope and faith in a higher power do tend to bring people closer but there must be balance between science and religion seeing that they usually don't coincide. :)

[@CHIMELDA98]

Oh wow! Thats horrible! Yes! Something needs to be done. How disgusting to hear of such heartless people to ruin the lives of innocent woman who probably have families and husbands and of course dignity and pride! what pigs.

[@CraigCastanet]

oh, one global point. sympathy and compassion are feelings, which may or may not give rise to rational policy. in the end, reason must prevail. extrapolate your compassionate policies as a thought experiment, and see if, ultimately, you too, would invoke your right to your own property. i am implying that all your compassionate policies ultimately expropriate private property-which represents one's life's effort- from some to give to others. you have the typical free stuff mentality.

[@jamespalmer4945]

If we just opened the border and removed the illegal immigration laws the boat would capsize. 80% of illegal or legal immigration claim welfare for whatever they are able to. But I do respect the publisher for not removing the comment section

[@syn707]

Where is César Chavez when you need him. His union members could help the border patrol like they did back in the day.

[@angelabolin8300]

Your family's actions broke our laws. Do they take accountability for it???

[@xxhypedupxx8336]

Your

[@angelabolin8300]

@@xxhypedupxx8336 You are correct thank you.

[@bobbyhill8486]

Does your family take accountability for the actions of your ancestors who stole land in this country that belonged to Native Americans, and do they take accountability for slavery?

[@JohnSmith-kv6yl]

So what?

[@Pat9201]

so the action of coming to a country illegally counts as an action?

[@Ian-hx2xv]

So, around two months ago I contacted Jose Vargas on twitter. We offered to do a new documentary film with him discussing the Aztec Genocide of the Southern Mexican Zapotec tribe. He immediately turned us down and began angrily ranting about how he was Filipino, not a Mexican. The thing was, we never said anything about him being Mexican. We simply offered him to narrate our Documentary film. Jose Vargas is a self-proclaimed "people's activist" who has discussed historical crimes in his past on many occasions. We believed he would be the perfect match to narrated a film on the Mexican Aztec Genocide of the Zapotecs. Unfortunately, Jose did not feel the same way. Jose also made it predominately known he is to be addressed as "Jose Antonio Vargas", and not Jose Vargas. For anyone who has trouble understanding what any of this means: Very simply, Jose only talks about White People. In fact, he is obsessed with them. So much is the case, that he produced a film for MTV called "White People". In it, he travels across the United States harassing 14-year-old White Girls asking passive-aggressive questions to their White Parents. On Jose's twitter account he places the twitter hashtag #whitepeople in his biography description. Apparently in order to let the entire world know he is super focused on White People. Can you say White People? Jose can..... a lot. lol, they're all such frauds and hypocrite scam artist who act like they have moral high-ground. But when they're challenged to maintain their moral standards to anyone other than Whites, then their thin layered social-political scam unravels rapidly with hostility, and ultimately violence. #fuckjose #fuckjosevargas #josevargas #scamartist #marxist #racist #bigot Show less

[@markwhealen5949]

You are a wonderful person Jose and a great motivational speaker. Unfortunately Jose after the show you need to be handcuffed, taken to a detention center, and repatriated at you or your government expense back to the Philippines. Once you are back home you need to go to the American consulate and apply to legally enter the United States. That is what would be the expectation of the Philippine government of those wishing to enter their country. Good luck on your future plans.

[@jomana4517]

First you go back to your country, this land was stolen and raped so who are you to now impose laws like a hypocrite?

[@jomana4517]

I have Yaqui blood from my grandmother from Sonora,Mexico.Natives don't have that ugly "I own this Planet" attitude like the gringo invaders do,they are easily distinguishable.

[@jomana4517]

Taste of your own medicine. Bunch of cowards yelling,spitting and insulting innocent children, lets see you go yell at the armed drug dealer instead.

[@jomana4517]

You know exactly what I am talking about. It is on National news everyday of angry gringos stopping buses full of immigrant children and they spit, yell and curse at the scared innocent kids.

[@jomana4517]

Which one? You gave me 7 retarded questions.LOL

[@yourtitoedgar]

so why hasnt he been deported?

[@pizzadude9877]

Damn i thought he was mexican but he was asian after all

[@Mortison77577]

+Pizza Dude I could tell he was Asian from his face.

[@pizzadude9877]

Ester Samuels well he was actually filipino to be exact

[@Mortison77577]

Pizza Dude Yeah. All Asian people look the same to me.

[@pizzadude9877]

Ester Samuels chinese don't look the same as indonesian and most filipinos looks like mexicans

[@Mortison77577]

Pizza Dude That could be because the Filipinos are interbred with Spanish.

[@leonuy3944]

This guy even had the nerve to make a book for minors. In it, he proudly states that he is an "undocumented" (or illegal) AMERICAN!!! He wrote in the book how his mother illegally let him stay in the country plus the fraud that he and his grandfather committed. He also included the lies he wrote in the employment application forms saying that he has work authorization. He even displayed his fake green card at the back of the book's hard cover. He is too much!!! Mr. Vargas, how dare you try to influence and pollute the minds of our kids with you and your family's unlawful activities!!! SELF DEPORT NOW!!! But I guess he would insist in staying in the USA because he does not have the decency.

[@tripled8542]

I was classmates with this guy in elementary in the Philippines. I can tell you this guy thinks rules don't apply to him. He was top scout officer and I was next in line. But he chose one of his pals who was 3rd in line to be next in command if he's not around, even though it was explained to him that this was not correct. He insisted on what he wanted. I know it sounds really petty but it gives us a glimpse of his true personality. He has and will believe in his own set of rules. Always.

[@mrpersianality6363]

get your papers legally instead of trying to guilt trip people into thinking your crime should be pardoned

[@williegates627]

It's scary to think about how this was filmed in 2012, and how many MILLIONS of people have absolutely flooded across the border over the last year or two (in 2020/2021). I am certain that "65% have been here for 10 years" statement is no longer accurate.