Blog #5

In the text “Outlaw: My Life in America as an Undocumented Immigrant” by Jose Antonio Vargas, it states the power and connotations of the words “undocumented immigrants” and “illegal aliens”. These words hold connotations and power in their own way. As stated in paragraph 11, the author felt anxiety and guilt when talks of “illegal immigrants” began. These words make those seeking asylum seem like criminals and mischievous people. Also cited in paragraph 46 the author speaks about how his fears of the label illegal immigrant has scared him so much he had to inform his employers about his citizenship status. These labels create division and put targets on the backs of those that come here seeking a better life. I believe the word migrant would be a better term to address Jose and those in his situations. The word migrant means “a person who moves from one place to another, especially in order to find work or better living conditions”. This word better suits those in Jose’ situation because it depicts an accurate image of people seeking a better life. This country was built on migration. People left their native countries and came here for better living conditions and to escape any challenges faced in their home countries. Migrants deserve to be treated equally and be allowed asylum based on their reasons for coming here. The terms illegal immigrants and undocumented immigrants create a narrative that those coming here are undeserving and are committing foul crimes. That is how powerful those words are.

 

Comment ( 1 )

  1. Ranniel Peña Maria
    You're right, the United States was a country made up of immigrants in their initial stages, if they discriminate against immigrants, it would mean they discriminate against people who left their country in the past in search of a better life in what is now America.

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