CW, This might take two beers...
We are probably in full agreement that illegal immigration needs to be strongly addressed.  You're assuming I'm not, and arguing against a position I don't hold.  
Yes, the US is a sovereign nation with every right to set rules for immigration.  The system should be designed to prevent 10-12 million illegal aliens in the country.
The point of contention is what is the best response for immigration enforcement when there are minor children (who are US citizens, just like you and I). In my opinion it is cruel to deport the mom, leaving the kids with another relative or uprooting to a country where they never lived.  (Would the kids be illegals in Mexico?)
So the idea is to come up with ideas at our beer summit that are more effective, but also reflect the better nature of our humanity.  Deporting "bad hombres".  Employer e-verify, strong ID requirements, and steep fines for hiring would stop the problem before it starts.  There is a middle way that works.