Representative Image / AI-generated

For decades, legal immigrants have been the backbone of America’s economic, social, and cultural fabric. They followed the law, filled out every form, paid every fee, and waited years—sometimes decades—for their turn to enter and contribute to this great nation.

They came here seeking opportunity, safety, and freedom within the framework of American law. But today, that proud legacy is being overshadowed and undermined by the unchecked influx of illegal immigrants—many of whom are not only flouting immigration laws but also contributing to rising incidents of crime and disorder.

The growing crisis

Recent fatal truck accidents involving unlicensed and undocumented drivers have shaken immigrant communities across the country, including the Sikh community. These tragedies were not merely accidents—they were preventable.

They were the result of policies that deliberately ignore immigration laws and allow unverified, untrained individuals to operate vehicles and businesses with impunity. When such negligence costs innocent lives, it becomes not just a policy issue but a moral one.

Legal immigrants must support law enforcement

It is time for first-generation legal immigrants—especially those who understand the sacrifices it takes to follow the law—to take a firm, vocal stand in support of law enforcement agencies like ICE and the Department of Homeland Security.

These agencies exist not to target honest workers, but to uphold the integrity of the immigration system and protect every resident—citizen or immigrant alike—from harm.

Supporting law enforcement means supporting safety, accountability, and justice. Legal immigrants have nothing to fear from enforcing the law; rather, they have everything to gain. When illegal activities are curbed, communities are safer, reputations are protected, and trust between immigrants and their fellow Americans is strengthened.

Responsibility of the Sikh and other immigrant communities

Within the Sikh community and many others, awareness needs to grow that illegal immigration harms everyone. It creates an underground economy that exploits the vulnerable, depresses wages, and fuels resentment among law-abiding residents.

Community leaders must speak openly against illegal immigration and encourage those without status to pursue lawful avenues—or, if their cases are denied, to self-deport and respect the country’s laws.

Legal immigrants are often in the best position to identify and guide those being misled by unscrupulous lawyers and “consultants” who file fake asylum or fraudulent immigration petitions. Instead of remaining silent, legal immigrants should act as responsible stewards, guiding others toward compliance rather than complicity.

Holding politicians accountable

Governors and policymakers who have encouraged sanctuary policies—such as California Governor Gavin Newsom—must be held accountable for the consequences of their actions.

By creating an environment that shields illegal immigrants from deportation, these leaders are not showing compassion—they are encouraging lawlessness. The tragic deaths caused by unlicensed illegal drivers are a direct result of policies that put ideology before public safety.

First-generation legal immigrants, who have the power of the ballot, should make their voices heard. It is time to send a clear message to elected officials: your policies must protect those who respect America’s laws, not those who violate them.

Upholding America’s promise

The United States of America remains the world’s greatest beacon of hope and opportunity—a utopia where hard work, integrity, and respect for the law are rewarded. Unlike many parts of the world, America does not judge an entire community for the misdeeds of a few.

But that trust must be reciprocated. It is the duty of every legal immigrant to maintain the dignity, discipline, and moral fabric that earned them a place in this nation.

Standing against illegal immigration is not an act of division—it is an act of loyalty to the country that opened its doors to us. By supporting law enforcement, promoting lawful behavior, and holding negligent leaders accountable, legal immigrants can ensure that the promise of America remains strong, fair, and just for generations to come.

The author is the Chairman of Sikhs of America.

(The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of New India Abroad.)