Institutionalized Racism

The Dallas Morning News reported today that Texas has implemented changes to the issuance of driver licenses of foreign nationals. These individuals will now be required to provide documentation when they apply for driver licenses and each time they renew it. In addition, the license will be displayed vertically instead of horizontally, and have "Temporary Visitor" stamped on the front. Opponents are swarming mad, saying that this is racism at it's finest. However, for those concerned about Texas' status as a border state and immigration issues, this is just one way to know who is in our state and country, says Gov. Rick Perry. This change is not as harmful as opponents are making it out to be. Yes, it may cause some embarrassment for some if they feel they're being looked at differently when they're writing a check. However, there are no legal consequences that stem from the change. Those affected will not be arrested even if they are illegal when they are applying for a driver license. It means those trying to obtain a driver license illegally will not be able to do so. According to one man from the Philippines, “I strove to build a new life here,” said Mr. Palacio, who works as an information systems auditor in Austin. “Imagine my shock, my dismay, my fear, to find that these rules… designated me a mere temporary visitor to the U.S.” If Mr. Palacio does not have documentation, this change will not affect his status as a foreign national. This change will only mean that those trying to commit a crime will hopefully be deterred from doing so.