How We Fought Illegal Immigration During The Reagan Years. We Were Warned.

This TV report was presented in 1985 on the United States southern border of a fence near San Diego. At the time, 2000 illegal aliens a day crossing the border. The gentleman expressing his concern is Harold Ezell, a key figure in the U.S. immigration enforcement during the 1980s, particularly known for his role in the Southern California region, which includes San Diego. He was not specifically a “border wall security officer,“ but his position and actions had significant impacts on border security and immigration policy in the area. Ezell was appointed as the Western Regional Commissioner of the INS, a role in which he oversaw immigration and border enforcement in the Western United States, including the critical Southern California sector. His tenure coincided with President Ronald Reagan’s administration and was particularly influential during the period leading up to and following the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) of 1986. Ezell was known for his tough stance on illegal immigration. He oversaw and implemented stringent enforcement policies at the Southern California border. He often made headlines for his outspoken nature and controversial statements regarding immigration and border security. His remarks sometimes drew criticism from immigrant advocacy groups. Ezell was instrumental in implementing “Operation Jobs“ in 1986, which involved workplace raids aimed at identifying and deporting undocumented workers. This operation was part of the broader strategy to reduce the incentive for illegal immigration by targeting employment opportunities. Harold Ezell’s methods and statements attracted criticism from various groups who argued that his policies were overly harsh and insensitive to the plight of immigrants. Despite the controversy, Ezell’s actions significantly impacted how border security and immigration enforcement were conducted in the Southern California region. The situation regarding illegal immigration through the border has evolved significantly from 1985 to the present. In 1985, the physical infrastructure at the border was much less developed. Fencing was limited and often in poor condition, making it easier for people to cross undetected as this video shows. The number of Border Patrol agents was considerably lower than today. The use of technology for border surveillance was minimal. There were no advanced systems like drones, high-resolution cameras, or motion sensors that are common today. The immigration policies and political discourse around immigration were different. The Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) was passed in 1986, which marked a significant change in immigration law and policy. Today there has been significant development in border infrastructure including high fencing, walls in certain areas, and better-maintained barriers. The number of agents and resources allocated to the Border Patrol is much higher, leading to more effective enforcement. Modern technology, including drones, thermal imaging, and advanced surveillance systems, has been deployed, making detection of illegal crossings more efficient. Immigration policy and the political discourse surrounding it have continued to evolve, with varying approaches under different administrations. President Ronald Reagan who was the President of the United States from 1981 to 1989 held a position on immigration that was notably complex, especially concerning the southern border and the mix of illegal and legal immigration. Reagan often spoke positively about legal immigration, viewing it as a source of vitality and strength for the United States. He celebrated the diversity and the entrepreneurial spirit that immigrants brought to the country. He recognized the economic contributions of immigrants, particularly in terms of labor and filling jobs in various sectors. While Reagan acknowledged the contributions of immigrants, he also expressed concerns about border security and the need to control illegal immigration. His approach to dealing with illegal immigrants already in the country was somewhat more humanitarian and pragmatic compared to some of his contemporaries and successors. If this was of interest I ask you to support my efforts to present more like this my clicking the Thanks button or by making a contribution via PayPal at Thank you.