DREAM Act sparked shouting match at Fresno State

It was only supposed to be one single item on the regular agenda of a regularly scheduled student senate meeting. But what happened Wednesday night was anything but regular. Tempers flared over whether the DREAM Act should become law. The proposed legislation would grant citizenship to illegal immigrants if they serve in the military or finish at least two years of college.

Myra Coble, who supports the DREAM Act says "The DREAM Act is not going to reward anyone that does not earn it ... it's going to reward those like Pedro who strive to be good contributing members of our society."

Pedro Ramirez, a Fresno State senior and student body president publically acknowledged two weeks ago he had come into this country illegally. While the evening's topic was the DREAM Act, the fate of Pedro Ramirez took center stage. Not everyone was in support of the DREAM Act; some believe going to college isn't enough to earn amnesty.

Mary Lou Rodriguez-Bonneau said, "Go to the military. Have the guts ... go ... and if you come back alive ... I'll walk with you proudly ... to get your citizenship."

At the end, student senators voted to support the DREAM Act. But whatever congress does may come too late for Pedro. His attorney told Action News current immigration law leaves few pathways for the Fresno State student, except to return to Mexico. Congress has yet to schedule a vote on the issue.