INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
The Mexican government has rejected SB 1718, a new law that targets undocumented immigrants and those who aid them, which recently came into
effect in Florida.In a statement, the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE) stated that SB 1718 would impact the human rights of
thousands of Mexican individuals, including children, and create a hostile environment that may lead to hate crimes against the immigrant
culture.Through its consulates in Miami and Orlando, the Mexican government believes that criminalization is not appropriate for addressing
undocumented immigration.Mexican government rejects anti-immigrant law in Florida
(Photo Internet reproduction)It also highlighted the significance of transnational labor markets and the strong economic and tourist ties
between Mexico and Florida, cautioning against measures driven by xenophobia and white nationalism.Implementing SB 1718 will affect the
bilateral relationship between Mexico and the United States, as both countries have worked together to foster tolerance, security, and
respect, which this law undermines.The SRE assured that it would utilize all available resources to defend the rights and dignity of Mexican
nationals in Florida.They will reinforce their efforts to provide assistance, consular protection, and legal advice to the Mexican
community, regardless of their immigration status.Additionally, Mexico and human rights organizations will document any violations of
protests, prompting pro-immigrant organizations to convene the Mexico, Central, and South America Migration Convention in Miami.The
convention aims to develop a strategic plan to counter SB 1718 and the policies of Governor Ron DeSantis.The new law, part of a package of
over 200 laws passed by the Florida Congress this year, mandates that companies with 25 or more employees use an official program to verify
the immigration status of each worker, under penalty of fines and license revocation.Additionally, hospitals accepting public health
insurance (Medicaid) must inquire and record the legal residency status of patients.
