Journal Entry 1C:
The piece that I chose to focus on was published
on the abcnews.go.com website. The
article is titled “A Landmark Protest
on the U.S.-Mexico Border” and it deals with a recent action where
thirty “Dreamers” or undocumented student activists crossed and sought asylum
at the border. This action, organized by the National Immigrant Youth Alliance (NIYA)
is the second of its kind. Earlier this year in August, nine Dreamers
successfully crossed the U.S. Mexico border and made waves on news outlets and
social media for their creative and courageous political action. But what are
these actions reacting to? NIYA and the “Dream 9” and “Dream 30” are attempting
to aggressively criticize President Obama’s immigration and deportation
policies. As the article states, these actions are “an effort meant to bring attention the 1.7 million-plus
people deported during President Barack Obama’s first term in office.” The
article ends with a somber note, highlighting the difficulties that will arise
when immigration reform reaches the Republican-controlled House of
Representatives, a party notorious for moving slowly on any legislation. With
the fiscal calendar over and a government shutdown occurring now. I wonder if
these actions will have a lasting impact on the debate of immigration reform,
and if larger demonstrations will ensue in the future. I’m hopeful that the
student immigrant movement will keep on challenging the Obama administration,
and do not share the same opinion of the author. Student activists around the country,
myself included have been affected by these courageous individuals and I’m
optimistic for the next actions to come. Dream 50 anyone?
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