Toward a Theoretical Framework for Membership: The Case of Undocumented Immigrants and Financial Aid for Postsecondary Education

This case study/philosophical analysis responds to the primary research question: "Should undocumented immigrants receive financial aid by responding to the sub-question: What does it mean to be a member of society?" The case study organizes and collects empirical evidence from stakeholders involved in Texas House Bill 1403 (2001), legislation granting in-state tuition to undocumented immigrants. The study found that principles of residency, social awareness, reciprocation, investment, identification, patriotism, destiny, and law abidingness form a framework that explains substantive membership. I argue that undocumented immigrants who have developed into substantive members should receive financial aid.