It's undoubtedly one of the hot-button issues in America today. Recently, thousands of immigrant-rights activists took to the streets of Tampa and other Florida cities to make their position known. There were also counter-protestors from groups like the Minuteman Project.
Congress has different bills addressing the issue. Florida Senator Mel Martinez was one several U.S. Senators from both sides of the aisle trying to broker a deal that would include a guest worker program. Many of the state's representatives in the House supported another piece of legislation that would not only tighten the nation's borders, but would make it a felony to be in this country illegally. In addition, it would make it a crime for anyone to knowingly assist undocumented persons.
Listen now.
What does this all mean to Tampa Bay & West Central Florida? We assembled a panel to address this and more.
Our guests include:
Jim Delgado, Attorney & President, Mexican Council of Florida
John Hendrix, The Minuteman Project (Tampa Bay Chapter)
Dr. Darryl Paulson, USF-St. Pete Political Science Professor
Join Carson Cooper for the next Florida Matters Friday, April 21st at 6:30 pm and Saturday, April 22nd, at Noon on WUSF 89.7, Your NPR Station.
Florida Matters is WUSF 89.7's forum that goes beyond the daily headlines and explores issues that matter to you and your community.
Florida Matters addresses critical issues identified by listeners in our Ascertainment Survey 2006. The top five issues that matter most to you are: education, transportation, growth management, environment and affordable housing. Hear directly from decision makers, experts and other concerned citizens. Our purpose is not only to stimulate conversation, but to advance the discussion.
Carson Cooper has been a favorite of listeners as Host of "Morning Edition" on WUSF 89.7 since 2000. He also reports for other WUSF 89.7 broadcasts. Carson has worked in Tampa Bay radio for more than two decades.
Florida Matters WUSF Host Robin Sussingham
Robin Sussingham
Robin Sussingham has collaborated with WUSF as a contributing correspondent since June 2005. She frequently reports on stories of interest in Polk County. Robin formerly hosted "Talk of the City" and "All Things Considered" for NPR member station KCPW in Salt Lake City, Utah.
It's undoubtedly one of the hot-button issues in America today. Recently, thousands of immigrant-rights activists took to the streets of Tampa and other Florida cities to make their position known. There were also counter-protestors from groups like the Minuteman Project.
