Essay 539

Taxing efforts in a MultiCultClassics Monologue…

• Tens of thousands of illegal immigrants are joining the majority of Americans in a frustrating and even hated duty — paying income taxes. Many believe it will lead to gaining legal status sooner. “Our job is to make sure that everyone who earns income within our borders pays the proper amount of taxes, even if they may not be working here legally,” said IRS Commissioner Mark W. Everson. The IRS issues special identification numbers for illegal immigrants, which seems contradictory in many ways. “The issuing of these numbers to people who are here illegally is simply helping them to remain and work in this country, which is part of the federal government’s schizophrenia when it comes to illegal immigration,” said an official with the Federation for American Immigration Reform. Hell, illegal immigrants are even going to H&R Block for assistance. Can’t wait to see the commercials targeting these folks.

• The LAPD has been making progress diversifying its ranks. Affirmative action consent decrees in 1980, 1992 and 1993 have helped initiate the efforts. “Fifteen years ago, this department was dominated by White males,” said the president of the city’s Police Commission. “That picture clearly has changed dramatically.” Deputy Chief Earl Paysinger, the LAPD’s highest-ranking Black officer, remarked, “The department has struggled with becoming diverse, not just with how we look but how we act. … Are we there yet? Hell, no, but we’re getting there. We’re on the road.” The Los Angeles Times wrote all about it — click on the essay title above for the full story.