"Illegal" still means "against the law", right?

In response to today's Whig article on the ACLU suit against the Town of Elkton, I went on to the ACLU Maryland site (http://www.aclu-md.org/aPress/Press%202007/070907_Elkton.html) to see what it was all about.

Please know that I certainly have an issue with the "bulldozing" of these folks' belongings!

The greater issue here is of legal vs. illegal activities. In addition, I question some of the comments regarding availability and waitlisting for homeless services in the region.

First, is it legal or illegal for these folks to be camped out in the woods behind the shopping center? I presume that someone owns that lot and that they did not give their permission for folks to live there? If that's the case, then they shouldn't be there. This is very similar to my views on immigration. The media never seems to remember that folks who are here without permission are not supposed to be here. I believe that I am not alone in my view here. I welcome with open arms anyone who is legally allowed to be on my property. I further welcome folks who are in our country with our permission. In short, whether an illegal immigrant or an illegal occupant...each breaks the law. As far as whether or not the law in Elkton is overbroad or not, that's irrelevant to me. They aren't supposed to be there!

Now, on the availability and waitlisting front...this is simply untrue. While facilities are less than optimal in the area, there is plenty of room at the inn for those who want to be there. Are the facilities ideal? No. Do they allow for freedom to move about? Some do, some don't. However, they are there and if these folks want to use them they can without much trouble at all.

I do not know these people personally and I surely pray that I never end up in their shoes. However, if I do end up there I truly believe that I would have no problem finding a roof and food in a legal manner.

At the end of the day, many of these folks (not necessarily "these" 8 folks) do have choices that I believe they choose not to make. Look at the man who is frequently on Route 40 near Denny's. He doesn't want to work. He just wants a handout. When you ask him about his needs, he gives you the finger. Look also at the folks who were recently assisted through the Winter by local churches (the rotation of churches who helped with some shortfall over the cold season). While many of these folks were blessed to be served and happy to be there, I cannot help but think of those who have no problem buying cigarettes rather than seeking work or a home. Indeed, some complained that they couldn't smoke in our building. Free food and shelter met with rudeness and a sense of "you owe me".

I'm in rambling mode so I'll stop for now. The ACLU needs to stand for ALL people in these matters, not just those who don't like the law and want to dance around it.

"Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:32 NIV