Security policy concerns Hispanic community

FRANKLIN, Ind. -- The government's security policies since the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks have contributed to "an atmosphere of confusion and a climate of mistrust" toward immigrants, the Mexican consul of Indianapolis said Saturday.\nImmigrants have been subjected to arbitrary searches and prolonged detention without being charged or without due process of law, and have been denied the right to call their consulate, said Sergio Aguilera.\n"These policies threaten to deprive individuals of the most basic human rights," he said.\nAguilera spoke Saturday at a symposium at Franklin College's Pulliam School of Journalism about media coverage of Hispanics.\nReporters and editors from newspapers and television stations attended the luncheon speech, which Aguilera delivered in Spanish, along with representatives of Hispanic organizations.\n"We have to show to American society that immigration is not a problem, that (it) may well be the solution to many of the challenges of this country, presently as well as in the long-term," Aguilera said.\nInstead, he said, "conservative and ultraconservative sectors" have worked to block programs designed to promote integration. He said that has been most noticeable since Sept. 11.\n"Since then, many actions and policies of the federal government have contributed to an atmosphere of confusion and a climate of mistrust toward immigrants, promoting the false notion that immigrants are synonymous with terrorists," Aguilera said.\nTwo messages seeking comment were left Saturday with the Department of Justice. A worker who was answering phones for the agency said no one would be available for comment until Monday.\nAguilera said the government's "coercive efforts" have resulted in unintended consequences that include smuggling, document fraud and other criminal activities. He also said those policies have contributed to the deaths of hundreds of immigrants along the nation's borders.\nAguilera said every journalist should be committed to inform "in the most truthful and objective way."\n"Your support is necessary to the integration of all Latin American immigrants to the mainstream of society, making the process much more positive and enriching for everyone," he said.