The anti-immigration fight has been moving beyond the borders. Increasingly, it's a debate that's happening in the American heartland. From the Wall Street Journal (free link):
An elderly woman's appointment to a local parks board doesn't normally generate controversy. But in Kansas City, Mo., Frances Semler's new position on the city's Parks and Recreation board has unexpectedly fanned the flames of the debate over illegal immigration.
The 73-year-old Mrs. Semler is an activist in the Minuteman Civil Defense Corps, a controversial volunteer civilian patrol formed two years ago to secure U.S. borders and crack down on illegal immigrants.
The article goes on to discuss the ins and outs of immigration in the Kansas City area. It's a really interesting read.
Kansas City has been home to a Mexican-American community for generations, but their population doubled between 1990 and 2005, and immigration opponents believe many of those newer arrivals are here illegally.
Zach Patton -- Executive Editor. Zach has written about a range of topics, including social policy issues and urban planning and design. Originally from Tennessee, he joined GOVERNING as a staff writer in 2004. He received the 2011 Jesse H. Neal Award for Outstanding Journalism
E-mail: zpatton@governing.com 
Written and compiled by staff writers and editors, GOVERNING View is an on-the-ground, and sometimes behind-the-scenes, look at the topics we're covering in print and online. From notes on what's up in statehouses, county courthouses and city halls, to encounters with people, places and things, GOVERNING View is a window into the side of state and local government you don't always see.
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