Immigration Reform Needs Growth Focus

Huffington Blog Post

May 10, 2013

"What's in a name? If it's a bill in Congress, it turns out there's quite a bit.

The Gang of Eight's immigration proposal, the "Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act," clearly lays out what -- and in what order -- an overhaul must do.

There is no doubt that the first priority for immigration reform must be to increase our safety. The legislation seeks to achieve this through enhanced border security and a path to citizenship for the 11 million undocumented workers that are currently vulnerable to manipulation by criminal elements and unscrupulous employers.

There will be extended debate over border security as well as over the criteria required to climb on the path to citizenship and the rules and regulations of any guest worker plan.

However, the pivotal discussion will be over the "Economic Opportunity" portion of the measure. Determining if the bill becomes law may hinge upon whether it focuses on sparking economic growth or expanding allotments for family reunification. In order to succeed in this era of budget constraint and anemic growth, success requires a focus on growth."

GEShanghai - China's Business Center

Photo (© Kennedy) - at GE China

May 3, 2013

It was great to visit with many business and academic leaders during my recent visit to Shanghai, including Fudan University and CEIBS - the China European Business School. It was especially informative to meet with members of the Quality Brands Protection Committee of the China Association of Enterprises with Foreign Investment led by Jack Chang, Senior IP Counsel for GE (photo above).

SShanghai American School

Engaging Students on U.S. Civics

Photos - with 3rd Grades Students

May 1, 2013

It was great to stop by the Shanghai American School and both read House Mouse - Senate Mouse to third grade students and to discuss U.S. civics with 5th graders.  I was very impressed with the quality of the student's questions and their understanding of U.S. history.

HKHong Kong - Global City

Photos (© Kennedy) - Harbor / Johnnies

It was great to return to this truly global city to visit with local business leaders, media outlets, as well as to engage both the University of Hong Kong and Hong Kong University of Science and Technology.

SSingapore - Global Crossroads

Photo (© Kennedy) - with GW Alums

April 29, 2013

It was great to visit Singapore again to exchange ideas with George Washington University alumni, gain the insights of local business leaders and collaborate with colleagues from the National University of Singapore.  As a hub for Southeast Asia, Singapore continues to be vital crossroads for both commerce and ideas.

Follow @HonMarkKennedy

Chartwell on Facebook Mark's Linked In Chartwell on Twittery