MLBPA opposes Arizona immigration law

Good for them.

New York, NY, Friday, April 30, 2010 … The following statement was issued today by Major League Baseball Players Association Executive Director Michael Weiner regarding the immigration law recently passed by the state of Arizona.

“The recent passage by Arizona of a new immigration law could have a negative impact on hundreds of Major League players who are citizens of countries other than the United States. These international players are very much a part of our national pastime and are important members of our Association. Their contributions to our sport have been invaluable, and their exploits have been witnessed, enjoyed and applauded by millions of Americans. All of them, as well as the Clubs for whom they play, have gone to great lengths to ensure full compliance with federal immigration law.

“The impact of the bill signed into law in Arizona last Friday is not limited to the players on one team. The international players on the Diamondbacks work and, with their families, reside in Arizona from April through September or October. In addition, during the season, hundreds of international players on opposing Major League teams travel to Arizona to play the Diamondbacks. And, the spring training homes of half of the 30 Major League teams are now in Arizona. All of these players, as well as their families, could be adversely affected, even though their presence in the United States is legal. Each of them must be ready to prove, at any time, his identity and the legality of his being in Arizona to any state or local official with suspicion of his immigration status. This law also may affect players who are U.S. citizens but are suspected by law enforcement of being of foreign descent.

“The Major League Baseball Players Association opposes this law as written. We hope that the law is repealed or modified promptly. If the current law goes into effect, the MLBPA will consider additional steps necessary to protect the rights and interests of our members.

“My statement reflects the institutional position of the Union. It was arrived at after consultation with our members and after consideration of their various views on this controversial subject.”

Well said. Though I would prefer for it to not come to that, I hope the union follows through on its consideration of additional steps in the event the law doesn’t get blocked. It would be nice if Commissioner Selig followed their lead, too. Now maybe MLS will take a stand, too. Thanks to David Pinto for the link.

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One Response to MLBPA opposes Arizona immigration law

  1. Chuck says:

    I’m a firm believer in this law, provided it’s set up properly. That means- NOT turning Arizona into a police state, for starters. You cannot have police officers going “above the limit” of the law, which I understand could be a concern to those who could be affected by it. Racial profiling is wrong and this law must be laid out in such a way so that does not occur.
    I am all for having immigrants living in this country- PROVIDED they are LEGALLY here.
    This includes professional athletes. You must look “beyond the dollar” for a moment.
    Frankly, if you’re from Dominica and you are “undocumented”, then- REGARDLESS of your talent or what “you bring to the game”, you DON”T BELONG HERE. There are too many instances of those who “live on the fence” and don’t pay taxes, etc. It’s not my (or any other American’s) responsibility to support illegals.
    I have two words to say to ANY athlete or person (Latino, Hispanic or any other nationality) that seems to have such a bit problem with this law…
    “Papers Please.”
    Get your paperwork in order and you should have nothing to worry about, right? I have to carry my Driver’s License at all times when I’m out- especially in my vehicle- so I’m documented.

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