Billboards about immigration raise controversy in Houston

(7/17/06 - KTRK/HOUSTON) (KTRK) -- Drivers on the Katy Freeway can't help but be reminded of the immigration controversy. A new billboard's message is upsetting some people.

The billboard's message is simple -- 'stop the invasion.' It's the controversy surrounding it that is much more complicated.

Inside one Houston factory Mexican music plays in the background. The majority of the workers are Mexican American. Many of them have taken offense to a new billboard just outside their building. It's one that has caught the attention of those on both sides of the immigration debate. The 14 by 48 foot sign at I-10 and Heights Boulevard reads "Stop the invasion, secure our borders."

Houston resident Ramon Rosales said, "When you see signs like that, who do you look at? It's not the Indians. It's not the Iranians. It's the Mexicans, and I think that is racial."

The groups US Border Watch and Grassfire.org paid for the billboard to be put up. Organizers say it's an effort to inform people the country's borders have become war zones.

"In the single month of June alone, 254 officers along the Laredo sector of Texas were assaulted," said Curtis Collier with Border Watch. "That info has to get out. Our sign, links to the website will help get that info to the general public."

A handful of people turned out Monday for the billboard's unveiling. But not everyone believes the advertisement is money well spent.

"The billboard... Watch the border... They are going to come anyway," said Houston resident Saul Gloria. "Are you going to stop them? Who is going to stop them?"

The area where the billboard is located is predominately Hispanic. Coincidence? Those we talked to say no.

Houston resident Jesse Rodarte said, "They are trying to make a point and they are putting it right on people's faces and that can light a fire sometimes."

Other billboards with the same message have been placed in several cities across the county.
(Copyright © 2006, KTRK-TV)

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