Analyzing Complex Intersections of Racial/Ethnic Immigration Oppression in Modern United States
Objective: The objective of this assignment is to critically analyze the intricate intersections of racial/ethnic immigration oppression in the modern United States, exploring historical and contemporary contexts, policies, and socio-cultural dynamics. Through comprehensive research, critical thinking, and ethical considerations, students will demonstrate their ability to engage with the complexity of this topic and its implications for social justice and equality.
Assignment Tasks:
Part 1: Historical Analysis (50% of Total Assignment Weight)
Choose a specific historical period (e.g., early 20th century, civil rights era, the late 19th century, etc.) and focus on a marginalized racial/ethnic group (e.g., Japanese Americans, Italian-Americans, African Americans, Muslim Americans, etc.). Research and analyze the following aspects:
Historical Context: Provide an in-depth overview of the historical circumstances that led to the oppression of the chosen group, including immigration policies, discriminatory laws, and societal attitudes.
Immigration Policies: Analyze relevant immigration policies and laws during the chosen period that contributed to the oppression of the selected group. Examine how these policies affected immigration, citizenship, and residency rights.
Socio-Cultural Impact: Explore the social and cultural implications of immigration oppression on the chosen group, including experiences of discrimination, exclusion, and resistance. Consider aspects such as identity, community, and cultural preservation.
Part 2: Contemporary Analysis (50% of Total Assignment Weight)
Choose a current racial/ethnic group facing immigration oppression in the United States (e.g., undocumented immigrants, asylum seekers from Central America, Iraqi and Afghan immigrants, Somalis, Haitians, etc.). Research and analyze the following aspects:
Current Immigration Policies: Investigate and critically assess current immigration policies and practices that impact the selected group. Examine detention, deportation, and family separation policies, and their human rights implications.
Socio-Economic Consequences: Analyze the socio-economic effects of immigration oppression on the chosen group, including access to education, healthcare, employment, and social services. Consider how systemic oppression perpetuates inequality.
Media Representation and Public Discourse: Explore how media portrayal and public discourse influence perceptions of the selected group. Analyze the role of stereotypes, misinformation, and advocacy efforts in shaping public opinion.
Ethical Considerations: Throughout your analysis, emphasize the ethical dimensions of studying racial/ethnic immigration oppression. Discuss the importance of approaching the topic with cultural sensitivity, empathy, and a commitment to social justice.
Submission Guidelines:
The assignment should be submitted in the form of a comprehensive research paper, approximately 1200-1500 words in length (excluding references), following a standardized citation style, APA.
Incorporate a minimum of 8-10 reputable sources, including scholarly articles, books, reports, and primary sources
Part 1: Historical Analysis
Japanese American Internment:
During World War II, over 120,000 Japanese Americans were forcibly removed from their homes and detained in internment camps (Daniels, 2004). This history of oppression was driven by racial prejudice and wartime hysteria, rather than evidence of disloyalty or security threats (Ng, 1998). The Japanese American experience highlights how vulnerable minority groups can face discrimination and human rights violations even in times of crisis (Ng, 1998).
Part 2: Contemporary Analysis
Undocumented Immigrants from Latin America:
It is estimated that there are over 11 million undocumented immigrants currently residing in the United States, with the majority originating from Mexico and other Latin American countries (Budiman, 2020). While contributing significantly to the economy, these individuals face constant risks of exploitation, family separation, and deportation due to their undocumented status (Capps et al., 2015). Strict immigration enforcement has been found to negatively impact mental health and community trust, with lasting trauma for those deported (Capps et al., 2015; Martinez et al., 2015).
Media and Public Discourse:
Media framing of immigrants as threats has been shown to influence public attitudes and support for harsh policies (Santa Ana, 2002; Chavez, 2013). However, compassionate narratives highlighting shared humanity can help reduce prejudice and foster more inclusive policies (Esses et al., 2013). Advocacy groups are working to shift the conversation towards systemic reform and protection of basic rights for all (Gonzales, 2016).
Ethical Considerations:
Any analysis of oppression must acknowledge the inherent dignity of all people. While policies aim to control borders, we must recognize our shared stake in upholding justice, community, and the fundamental rights to safety, family, and a livelihood. With empathy and understanding across differences, it is possible to establish a more equitable and humane system.
References:
Budiman, A. (2020). Key findings about U.S. immigrants. Pew Research Center. https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2020/08/20/key-findings-about-u-s-immigrants/
Capps, R., Castañeda, R. M., Chaudry, A., & Santos, R. (2007). Paying the price: The impact of immigration raids on America’s children. Urban Institute. https://www.urban.org/research/publication/paying-price-impact-immigration-raids-americas-children/view/full_report
Chavez, L. R. (2013). The Latino threat: Constructing immigrants, citizens, and the nation. Stanford University Press.
Daniels, R. (2004). Guarding the golden door: American immigration policy and immigrants since 1882. Farrar, Straus and Giroux.
Esses, V. M., Medianu, S., & Lawson, A. S. (2013). Uncertainty, threat, and the role of the media in promoting the dehumanization of immigrants and refugees. Journal of Social Issues, 69(3), 518-536. https://doi.org/10.1111/josi.12027
Gonzales, R. G. (2016). Lives in limbo: Undocumented and coming of age in America. University of California Press.
Martinez, O., Wu, E., Sandfort, T., Dodge, B., Carballo-Dieguez, A., Pinto, R., Rhodes, S., Moya, E., & Chavez-Baray, S. (2015). Evaluating the impact of immigration policies on health status among undocumented immigrants: A systematic review. Journal of immigrant and minority health, 17(3), 947–970. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10903-013-9968-4 essay writing service.
Ng, F. (1998). Japanese American internment during World War II: A history and reference guide. Greenwood Publishing Group.
Santa Ana, O. (2002). Brown tide rising: Metaphors of Latinos in contemporary American public discourse. University of Texas Press.
