Sample Letter on Militarization of the Border

Sample Letter on Militarization of the Border

May 29, 1998

Senator _____________
US Senate
Washington, DC 20510

Dear Senator _____________:

As a member of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), the nation's oldest and largest civil rights organization, I write to express my opposition to any amendments to the Defense Bill that would call for the militarization of America's borders.

It has come to my attention that the House just passed a $270 billion bill that, among other provisions, authorizes the military to help patrol U.S. borders in the effort against drug smuggling . I am a proud citizen of this country, who would like to see America emerge victorious from the war on drugs. However, I am also deeply concerned that military personnel, trained for battle and not border patrolling, will make of our borders a war-zone, easily violating the civil rights of those they intervene with.

The Department of Justice has already voiced its opposition to the legislation because it will not advance or effectively support border enforcement.

LULAC adamantly opposes the deployment of up to 10,000 troops to the U.S.-Mexico border and as a member of the organization and your constituent, I strongly urge you to vote against any measure that would make a reality of this nightmare.

Sincerely,