In recent years, there have been many issues that have divided American society. Opposing sides have presented strong arguments to support what they believe in, and attempts have been made to come to a solution or compromise for the decision. Such issues include immigration, abortion, specifically the Supreme Court decision of Roe v. Wade, and flag burning.
From 1967-1990, American immigration underwent dramatic changes. The Immigration Act of 1965 ended the national origins quota system and tried to deal with the newcomers fairly. Congress gave preference to immigrants with needed technical and professional skills. Despite such regulations, millions of illegal aliens continue to enter the country. Most came in search of political freedom and economic opportunity. To stop the wave of illegal immigrants, Congress passed the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. The law granted legal status to "illegals" that had entered the U.S. before 1982. However, it also provided strict punishment for employers who continued to hire illegal aliens.
English: Rep. Albert Wynn (left) joins Gloria Feld...
Official portraits of the 1976 U.S. Supreme Court:...
English: View of Capitol Hill from the U.S. Suprem...Supporters hoped that fewer people would enter if they could not find work. Critics claimed that the law was unfair and discriminated against poorer Hispanic groups, especially Mexican workers.
In Roe v. Wade (1973), the U.S. Supreme Court invalidated all state laws, which prohibited abortion. Many women's groups saw it as a victory for women's rights, proclaiming that they now had "freedom of choice." Others saw abortion as murder and formed Right to Life Movements, with the goal of getting the Court to reverse its decision or prohibit abortion with a new constitutional amendment. While unsuccessful on either of these approaches, Right to Life groups continue to campaign to halt the use of federal Medicaid funds for abortion.
The burning of our flag has caused many controversies. Some citizens believe that
burning the US flag should be banned...