THIS IS REVOLUTIONpodcast Ep. 53: The History of Immigration w/Aviva Chomsky

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Understanding the History of Immigration in the United States

1. Introduction to the History of Immigration:

   • Aviva Chomsky, a professor and author, discusses the racialized nature of undocumented immigration in the United States.
   • She highlights the racial thinking behind immigration laws and the criminalization of certain immigrant groups.

2. Shift in Immigration Rhetoric:

   • Chomsky discusses the shift in immigration rhetoric under different administrations, from emphasizing legal vs. illegal immigration to a more generalized anti-immigrant stance.
   • She notes the increased focus on central Americans in addition to Mexicans in the public eye.

3. Evolution of Immigration Policies:

   • Chomsky explains the historical context of immigration policies, such as the emphasis on white immigration and the exclusion of non-white immigrants from citizenship rights.
   • She discusses the creation of guest worker programs dating back to the 1870s and their impact on immigrant communities.

4. Impact of Immigration Policies on Labor:

   • Chomsky delves into how immigration policies have been used to control labor and keep wages low, benefiting employers.
   • She highlights the exploitation of immigrant workers and the role of racism in allowing mistreatment of workers of color.

5. Discussion on Essential Workers:

   • Chomsky discusses the disproportionate impact of exploitative labor practices on essential workers, many of whom are immigrants and people of color.
   • She emphasizes the systemic racism and exploitation present in society that affects vulnerable populations.

6. Reflection on Current Immigration Policies:

   • Chomsky reflects on the need for a more humane immigration policy in the future, discussing potential reforms like the Dream Act.
   • She urges acknowledgment of historical injustices and the importance of creating a fair and just immigration system.

7. Hope for Future Immigration Policies:

   • Chomsky expresses hope for a more humane immigration policy under a new administration, potentially rolling back harmful policies and working towards comprehensive immigration reform.
   • She recommends exploring resources like the American Friends Service Committee website for insights on humane immigration policies.

8. Conclusion:

   • Chomsky concludes the discussion by emphasizing the importance of recognizing past injustices, advocating for reparations, and striving for a more equitable immigration system.

By following these steps, you can gain a deeper understanding of the history of immigration in the United States and the implications of current immigration policies on marginalized communities.