Hispanic construction workers in a Kernersville neighborhood have been left wondering what to do after experiencing verbal attacks while on the job. These incidents occurred in October in the new subdivision of Caleb’s Creek, near Interstate 40 and Union Cross Road. At times, the situation even seemed to verge on physical altercations.

Police Response and Lack of Arrests

The Kernersville Police Department has chosen not to investigate the incident, as stated by Police Chief Jason Tilley, as no crime was committed. Multiple neighbors have urged the police to at least consider harassment charges. One couple was heard shouting derogatory and offensive remarks at the workers, such as "You *expletive* immigrant! Go the *expletive* home! Go home!" Vance Wright, who lives nearby, recounted hearing such racial slurs outside his home on Oct. 7. He saw a vehicle parked with a couple yelling at the construction workers. Ring camera video later showed the couple driving by, yelling slurs, reversing, getting out of the car, and approaching the workers. However, the workers chose to ignore the insults. Despite neighbors providing a description and some license plate numbers to the police, no arrests were made. Tilley stated in a statement that after an investigation, no arrests were possible as no crime had been committed. He suggested that the incident may have been provoked by road rage, but Wright disputes this claim, deeming it as racism and harassment. This has left the Caleb’s Creek neighborhood filled with concern, with many residents expressing their unhappiness.

Worker's Perspective

Heladio Agama, one of the workers building homes in the subdivision, expressed his distress upon seeing the video. Through translation, he said, "Clearly, this makes me feel terrible to think that there are people out there who are this racist and simply don't want Hispanics here in this country. We're Hispanics, but we're out here doing the hard work. Why don't they come out here and do the hard work? We're the ones here doing it." His words reflect the frustration and injustice felt by the Hispanic workers.

Homeowners Association President's View

The president of the homeowners association for Caleb’s Creek was aware of the incident and was deeply disturbed by what had happened. He shared a similar sentiment to Agama, emphasizing the hard work being done by the Hispanic workers. He said, "I'm here. I'm working really hard. Yes, I am Hispanic, but I'm the one working hard in this country, and we're doing the job that no one else wants to do."These incidents highlight the challenges faced by Hispanic workers in the construction industry and the need for greater awareness and action to address such acts of racism and harassment.

In a significant development, Houston construction company CEO Stan Marek has emerged as a vocal advocate for alternative approaches to immigration, firmly opposing President-elect Donald Trump's proposed mass deportation plans. Marek's stance highlights the crucial role that migrants play in various industries and emphasizes the need for comprehensive solutions.

"Stan Marek's Plea for Immigration Reform Amidst Trump's Plans"

Immigration Concerns and the Texas Context

President-elect Trump's plans for a mass deportation have sent shockwaves across the country, with Texas being no exception. As Marek writes in a letter shared with KPRC 2, "President-elect Trump’s plans for a mass deportation have raised concerns all over the country, especially here in Texas." This sentiment is echoed by many, as the potential disruption to communities and industries is a matter of great concern. Marek points out that there has not been a major change in our immigration law since President Reagan's Immigration Reform Act of 1986, highlighting the need for a more measured and thoughtful approach.Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham's announcement last week about identifying property for the Trump administration further underscores the gravity of the situation. The reality is that mass deportations are not only morally complex but also financially burdensome. Trump's promise of the "largest deportation operation in the history of our country" comes with a hefty price tag that could run into the billions.

The Importance of Migrants in Industries

In a phone interview with KPRC 2's Rilwan Balogun, Marek called migrants "essential" to industries. He emphasizes that these individuals have put down roots, bought houses, and are raising their families. Their American-born kids are an important part of building the country's future workforce. Marek highlights the billions that have been spent on educating these kids and the senselessness of having them worry about being separated from their parents.For example, consider a construction company like Marek Construction. The diverse workforce brought in by migrants has contributed to the growth and success of the business. Their skills and hard work have been instrumental in completing projects and meeting deadlines. Without this workforce, the construction industry would face significant challenges.

Proposed Solutions for Law-Abiding Migrants

Marek offers several options for solutions while advocating for securing the border. He believes that the first step should be to identify undocumented migrants with criminal records such as gang members. This targeted approach ensures that public safety is not compromised.For law-abiding migrants, Marek suggests a "no-cost approach" that includes identifying those who have been here over five years and can pass a background check. Using facial recognition or digital fingerprints can provide them with a tamper-proof ID, ensuring their identity and legal status. They would also be required to pay a fine and a registration fee, similar to what Dreamers and Visa workers currently do.Moreover, these migrants would have to work for an employer who pays and matches payroll taxes, ensuring their contribution to the economy. This approach gives them guest worker status only and is not a path to citizenship, but it provides a legal framework for their presence in the country.Marek believes that comprehensive immigration reform should be bipartisan. He hopes that the President-elect uses this as an opportunity to work with Congress to pass sensible immigration reform that reflects the wishes of the majority of Americans. By finding common ground and starting with the things they agree on, a more sustainable and inclusive immigration system can be achieved.In conclusion, Stan Marek's call for immigration solutions is a timely and important one. It highlights the need to balance national security with the economic and social contributions of migrants. By exploring different approaches and working together, a more just and effective immigration system can be built.