The Historical Perspective Of Immigrant Families: How They Are Currently Politicized And Its Impact

Abstract

This thesis discusses the United States’ immigration policy in relation to family. Family reunification has been the backbone of U.S. immigration for centuries, however this doesn’t mean that policy makers have been concerned about the well-being of immigrant families. Immigrant families have become a pawn in politics, leaving this vulnerable population dehumanized while seeking out a better life. The first section explains family-based immigration in the U.S. The second section contains a historical timeline from 1790-2018, focusing on twelve acts that impacted family and children historically. The third section explains three interrelated components that constitute the negative politicizing of immigrant families: demonization, objectification, and fear. The fourth section contains a description of how immigrant families are negatively impacted by current, inhumane policies. The closing section contains the author’s conclusions. Connected to these findings, future research may be able to advocate for an improved immigration and naturalization system in the U.S. so immigrant families are not politicized as they currently are.