One of the most difficult obstacles that immigrants must overcome in attaining full participation in American society is how status is defined and regulated by the immigration and naturalization laws of the United States.  Without legal status, persons are severely hindered from participating and contributing to their full potential, and this has nothing to do with legitimate law enforcement designed to prevent criminal behavior. 

“No Human Being is Illegal.” 

This represents a great loss, not only to the person and to his or her family, but to American society –a great community of immigrants.  Other values that American society holds in esteem also suffer, when families are separated and basic constitutional protections are eroded.