ABOUT THIS SERIES
This series focuses on illegal labor in the home building industry because of its vital role in Tucson's growth. However, illegal labor also is common in other industries, including hospitality and agriculture.
Reporters Brady McCombs and Thomas Stauffer reported for three months, studying reports and data and interviewing workers, subcontractors, builders, academics and analysts...
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STORIES
Part 1 (June 11, 2006): Overhaul must break culture that encourages illegal workforce
All day long, Border Patrol agents head south from their station on West Ajo Way toward the nation's busiest corridor for illegal crossings...
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Part 2 (June 12, 2006): With 5,000 building jobs open here, illegal workers heed call
Despite using a work alias, a fraudulent Social Security number and a fake green card, Jorge Quintanilla has fared well installing insulation in Tucson. It's a symbiotic relationship for him and his employer.
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Part 3 (June 13, 2006): Worker shortfall, immigrant laws put construction firms in squeeze
Like any business owner, George Simon needs dependable labor. So when the excavation contractor finds workers who show up on time and work hard, he keeps them - even if he later discovers they're in this country illegally.
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Part 4 (June 14, 2006): Illegal labor helps put Tucsonans into homes
It's the dream home Robert and Alva Armenta thought was beyond their reach — a two-story, three-bedroom, coffee-with-milk-colored stucco near the base of "A" Mountain. The Spanish-language talk radio that blends with the pounding of hammers at their growing subdivision hints at what helps keep new homes affordable: illegal-immigrant workers.
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MORE
Star Editorial: Work of illegals indispensable to our economy
Comprehensive, practical immigration reform that addresses concerns of all is urgently needed.
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My opinion Debbie Kornmiller : Readers debate illegal-worker series online
Readers react to immigration series
