The Criminalization Of Immigration

This course will engage understanding of the political turmoil, in the United States and abroad, generated by mass migrations beginning in the late 20th century. We will study the history of immigration to what is now the “United States,” beginning with indigenous migrations in North America through the construction of “the Fence” at the Mexican border. We will discuss the racial roots of the “American dream,” including doctrines such as Manifest Destiny. We will look to legislation restricting immigration to the United States as it has evolved over time. We will consider Nativism and Vigilantism and their role in protection of the existing political order. We will examine myths about the economic impact of undocumented workers and determine who profits how from the current system. We will situate El Paseo and violence against immigrants in American history, evaluating the possibilities of a world without borders.

Bob Hernandez
