True. One aspect of the larger discussion has been about illegal immigrants committing crimes beyond their illegal status. That's perhaps a distinction that you don't find compelling, which is of course your prerogative. It can be helpful in the discussion to acknowledge whether that's the case.

Please describe how someone in the US illegally can survive without committing other crimes (if they can't work legally and they can't obtain welfare legally, how do they support themselves entirely within the law?)

Please grant a bit of charity in extending beyond their illegal status to include working for businesses who are willing to (illegally) hire undocumented workers and other similar cases where documentation is the only hold up.

I'm aware that one of the reasons some people are for increasing enforcement and deportation of illegal immigrants is that they're perceived as a drain on society by consuming public services and jobs. I also know that there are many illegal immigrants who pay use taxes and otherwise contribute positively to their community.

Please also note that I'm not arguing against 'mordant's position. I'm trying to understand more fully what that position is and encourage actual discussion and understanding (even if there isn't agreement). If that's not something that interests you, that's perfectly fine.

Is bartering illegal? Maybe a mix of couchsurfing and helpx?