OPINION:
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, huge numbers of immigrants came by ships that were required to unload at Ellis Island. There they were screened for criminal backgrounds, disease and fitness. At times, they were required to have employment offers in the United States. Any “failures” were immediately sent back to their home countries or put in hospitals and not allowed to enter.
Now we could set up similar screenings in immigration centers within Mexico near the main border crossings. These centers could be consular posts where migrants could be screened for criminal activity, gang affiliation and contagious disease. Asylum claims could be evaluated. Work visas could be issued.
Only those who pass the screening would be allowed to enter the United States. Others would need to stay in Mexico. People who tried to cross without this screening would be apprehended and incarcerated either in Mexico or here.
REBECCA LIVINGSTON
Silver Spring
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