Serious concern of Mexican Embassy regarding SC's ruling/ undocumented workers / Washington DC April 1, 2002

The Embassy of Mexico is concerned about the consequences of a U.S. Supreme Court ruling

The Embassy of Mexico in Washington, DC expresses its serious concern regarding the consequences which may result from the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in the case of Hoffman Plastic Compounds Inc. vs. National Labor Relations Board, regarding undocumented migrants, whose daily efforts and work contribute to U.S. economic growth and competitiveness.

It is the Government of Mexico’s commitment and obligation to look after the well being of and provide protection for its citizens residing in the United States, regardless of their migratory status.

Fully aware of the authority and respect which U.S. Supreme Court decisions deserve within the United States, the Embassy of Mexico nonetheless regrets that this resolution could create situations of abuse and exploitation against a large number of Mexican undocumented workers.

The presence of millions of undocumented workers, within numerous U.S. production and service sectors, results from the existence of a labor market. This reality, which must be acknowledged, has, for the first time, led the governments of both countries to tackle this phenomenon, from a comprehensive focus and a perspective of shared responsibility, in order for
migration flows to take place in a legal, dignified and orderly fashion.

In view of all of the above, it is urgent to move forward on the bilateral negotiations on migration -initiated by both countries in April 2001- and to avoid any form of abuse to Mexican laborers.