I have always found the institution of slavery, as it was practiced in Colonial and pre-1865 America abhorrent; however, I have also never been able to tolerate the hypocrisy of a people who were human traffickers (ship owners) themselves and financial supporters (ownership of plantations and primary consumers) of it, suddenly rising in indignation to its existence.
Today, we are faced with 12 to 20 million Illegal Immigrants in the U.S. Among certain business people, the use of "illegal" labor is tolerated even promoted. Among another group the political power available through providing these people amnesty is the goal. From my perspective, I very clearly see the parallels of justification or tolerance of the institution, whether it be slavery or illegal immigration, with a business or profit motive. While from another perspective, I can see the use of these people to gain or keep political and financial power. Are not these motivations similar to those of pre-1865 America?
I'd just like to hear some comments on my premise.
Jim