America Quote by Molly Ivins
“Racists seem obsessed by the idea that illegal workers - the hardest-working, poorest people in America - are somehow getting away with something, sneaking goodies that should be for Americans. You can always avoid this problem by having no social services. This is the refreshing Texas model, and it works a treat.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Commentary on immigration policy, United States, 1990s
The quote argues that anti‑immigrant sentiment frames undocumented workers as thieves, and suggests eliminating social services as a solution, citing Texas as a model.
In simple terms: It claims immigrants are blamed unfairly and proposes cutting social aid to stop the issue.
Consider the ethics and practicality of removing social services.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy debate
- community organizing
- public health
- education funding
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Is denying social services a fair way to address immigration concerns?
- What are the broader impacts of such policies?
The solution ignores the needs of vulnerable citizens and may worsen poverty.