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Illegal, alien, or immigrant : the politics of immigration reform / Lina Newton

Author
Newton, Lina
Published
New York : New York University Press, [2008]
Copyright Date
©2008
Physical Description
1 online resource (ix, 227 pages) : illustrations
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Series
Language Note
English.
Contents
Introduction : the power of a good story -- Considering unlikely outcomes : the peculiar politics of immigration -- Cases, contexts, and the puzzle of policy change -- Contesting illegalities : the 1986 Immigration Reform and Control Act -- Immigrants versus taxpayers : the 1996 Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act -- Problem Mexicans : race, nationalism, and their limits in contemporary immigration policy -- Conclusion : power and image in immigration policymaking.
Summary
While the United States cherishes its identity as a nation of immigrants, the countrys immigration policies are historically characterized by cycles of openness and xenophobia. Outbursts of anti-immigrant sentiment among political leaders and in the broader public are fueled by a debate over who is worthy of being considered for full incorporation into the nation, and who is incapable of assimilating and taking on the characteristics and responsibilities associated with being an American. In Illegal, Alien, or Immigrant, Lina Newton carefully dissects the political debates over contemporary immigration reform. Beginning with a close look at the disputes of the 1980s and 1990s, she reveals how a shift in legislators portrayals of illegal immigrants-from positive to overwhelmingly negative-facilitated the introduction and passing of controversial reforms. Newtons analysis reveals how rival descriptions of immigrant groups and the flattering or disparaging myths that surround them define, shape, and can ultimately determine fights over immigration policy. Her path-breaking findings will shed new light on the current political battles, their likely outcomes, and where to go from here.
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ISBN
9780814759028 (electronic bk.)
0814759025 (electronic bk.)
9780814758427 (cl ; alk. paper)
0814758428 (cl ; alk. paper)
9780814758434 (pb ; alk. paper)
0814758436 (pb ; alk. paper)
Digital File Characteristics
PDF
text file
Note
OldControl:muse9780814759028.
Bibliography Note
Includes bibliographical references (pages 209-220) and index.
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