Three Generations (eLuna, 2006) As we celebrate the holiday it is good to remember that the Declaration of Independence is a collection of claims based on the idea that all are created equal. The Declaration is a statement of principle, not a governing document. The Constitution, with its strength, limitations and contradictions, is our governing contract. Among the many things we should recall is that the Constitution is driven by the principles of the Declaration, not an easy or always transparent process. Among the many issues to negotiate is what we mean by “We the People.” Who is included among “the people” has been contested from the very beginning. In terms of voting, the early Republic excluded the vast majority of souls. Slaves, indigenous people, and women were excluded, but so were most white men. Universal white male suffrage did not appear until the 1830s. It is easy, but not particularly useful to blame our founders for these limitations. It is difficult, but more responsible take up the banner of the Declaration and act to fulfill its promise.
This year Congress debates immigration legislation. Though this issue has often been divisive, there is no need to demonize immigrants or those who are concerned about immigration. Of course it is simpler to get attention by vilifying people, but aside from some visceral experience, we do not get much from portraying each other as wicked. An aspect that seldom gets much attention is how global economic integration has intensified flows across borders of many nations. While immigration debates focus on federal policies, we should also use them as an opportunity to discuss underlining global factors that are transforming communities across the globe. With this in mind it might be good to ask some basic questions before coming to knee-jerk conclusions. How much control does any government have over the process? What type of communities are we going to promote? Will we allow ourselves to be more inclusive or divisive?
This year Congress debates immigration legislation. Though this issue has often been divisive, there is no need to demonize immigrants or those who are concerned about immigration. Of course it is simpler to get attention by vilifying people, but aside from some visceral experience, we do not get much from portraying each other as wicked. An aspect that seldom gets much attention is how global economic integration has intensified flows across borders of many nations. While immigration debates focus on federal policies, we should also use them as an opportunity to discuss underlining global factors that are transforming communities across the globe. With this in mind it might be good to ask some basic questions before coming to knee-jerk conclusions. How much control does any government have over the process? What type of communities are we going to promote? Will we allow ourselves to be more inclusive or divisive?
Salinas, CA (eLuna, 2006) The immigrant rights marches of 2006 are a good starting place to investigate these questions. On May 1, 2006 workers, migrants, both documented and undocumented, and supporters marched to claim rights in the U.S. The organizers of the marches gave out American flags to those who came. Some saw this as a way to manipulate the media. Still, we might ask if carrying the Stars and Stripes while claiming a place in the nation had and affect on those who took up the banner. This was an assertion to membership among “We the People.”
| The young in the crowds were a source of inspiration and concern. It was encouraging to see adolescents marching in celebration and with purpose. It was worrisome to see juveniles with an oppositional stance; not those who challenged the status quo, but those who concluded that they were unwanted. It is important to recognize that all people, especially the young, look for someone to accept and value them. We can either get involved now in a constructive manner, or later in a disciplinary fashion. |   |
Recommended Reading
Moving Millions: How Coyote Capitalism Fuels Global Immigration (here is a link to a PBS Newshour interview with the author). Jeffrey Kaye dedicates much of his book to immigration from Mexico, but he also provides a nice overview of global forces, as well as sending and receiving nations from many parts of the world.
Moving Millions: How Coyote Capitalism Fuels Global Immigration (here is a link to a PBS Newshour interview with the author). Jeffrey Kaye dedicates much of his book to immigration from Mexico, but he also provides a nice overview of global forces, as well as sending and receiving nations from many parts of the world.
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