Changing Perspectives on Immigration
A Call for Compassion and Justice
In today’s world, immigration remains a deeply contentious issue, often clouded by fear, propaganda, and a lack of historical understanding. As a society, we must challenge the misinformation that has long surrounded immigration, particularly when it comes to Latin American immigrants. In this post, I want to offer key paradigm shifts to help us rethink our approach to immigration from a more compassionate and justice-centered perspective.
1. Indigenous Roots and the Historical Displacement of Ancestors
When discussing immigration from Latin America, it is crucial to recognize the indigenous roots of many of the people seeking refuge. Their ancestors have lived on this land long before borders were established, and in many cases, they are returning to lands that were once their own.
The idea of borders is a relatively recent invention. Before the U.S. was founded, vast regions of modern-day America were inhabited by indigenous peoples, including the ancestors of many Latin Americans today. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo (1848), which ended the Mexican-American War, saw the U.S. take over a huge portion of land that belonged to Mexico, displacing countless indigenous and Mexican people. The myth that Latin American immigrants are “invaders” is not only inaccurate but disregards the historical truth that these lands were once their homes.
Additionally, during the era of Manifest Destiny, Native American tribes, Mexicans, and other indigenous peoples were driven out or stripped of their rights as the U.S. expanded westward. Those of indigenous descent have an ancestral claim to this land that far predates the borders we now defend so aggressively.
2. The African Perspective: Immigration and a Legacy of Injustice
When examining U.S. immigration policies, one cannot ignore the glaring disparities in how different regions of the world are treated. African applicants often face greater obstacles and stricter scrutiny when seeking entry into the U.S., while applicants from European countries encounter fewer barriers. This imbalance speaks to a deeper legacy of exploitation and injustice that has affected African nations for centuries.
The Exploitation of Africa: A Historical Debt Unpaid
Africa’s vast natural resources, from diamonds to gold, have long been extracted by Western powers with little regard for the well-being of its people. Colonialism devastated African nations, and the transatlantic slave trade added another brutal layer to the exploitation, as millions of Africans were forcibly taken to the Americas to build the wealth of nations like the United States. They worked in unbearable conditions, unpaid, contributing to the infrastructure and prosperity that modern societies now enjoy.
Despite this brutal history, descendants of those who were instrumental in building Western nations now face some of the most difficult immigration policies. African applicants are often singled out and subjected to harsher visa requirements, while individuals from European countries are given easier access. This imbalance is not only deeply unfair but also ironic, considering the historical debt the West owes to Africa.
A Question of Equality and Christian Values
At the heart of American ideals is the belief that "all men are created equal," as stated in the Declaration of Independence. Yet, history has shown a repeated betrayal of this principle. From the horrors of slavery to segregation and restrictive immigration policies, the U.S. has consistently prioritized some groups over others. Today’s immigration laws reflect this ongoing inequality, where people from African nations are often treated as second-class citizens in their pursuit of the American dream.
For those who hold Christian values dear, this disparity becomes even more troubling. The teachings of Jesus Christ emphasize love, compassion, and mercy for all people, regardless of their background. In Matthew 25:35-40, we are reminded: "I was a stranger, and you invited me in." It’s a powerful call to welcome and support those in need, a call that is too often ignored in immigration practices that disproportionately disadvantage African immigrants.
The Myth of American Supremacy
Much of the bias in immigration policies stems from the myth of American supremacy, often rooted in white nationalism. This belief positions certain people as inherently superior based on their race or nationality, reinforcing systemic racism in immigration laws. It perpetuates the false narrative that African immigrants, along with other people of color, are less deserving of opportunities than their European counterparts.
The truth is that immigration should not be about fear, control, or exclusion. It should be rooted in empathy and understanding. Many African immigrants, like immigrants from other regions, are fleeing poverty, political unrest, or violence in search of a better life. Their journey is no different from the aspirations shared by all people—seeking safety, security, and a future full of hope. To suggest otherwise is to fall prey to propaganda that has long been used to justify discriminatory and exclusionary policies.
3. Immigrants Are Seeking Safety, Not Harm
Perhaps one of the most dangerous myths perpetuated about immigrants is that they are coming to take jobs or cause harm. This harmful propaganda has been used throughout history to stoke fear and division, but the truth is far more human.
Many immigrants from Latin America are fleeing extreme violence, poverty, and political instability in their home countries. Countries like Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala are plagued by gang violence and governmental corruption, leaving many with no choice but to seek a better life elsewhere. The U.S. has long been seen as a beacon of hope for those fleeing these desperate conditions.
The idea that immigrants come to “take jobs” is not only false but misleading. In fact, immigrants often fill labor shortages and contribute positively to the economy. According to multiple studies, including those conducted by the United Nations, immigration boosts economic growth and provides much-needed labor in industries that are often underfilled.
Historically, we’ve seen similar narratives of fear. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, the “Yellow Peril” falsely painted Asian immigrants as a threat to American society. The same rhetoric is now being used against Latin American immigrants, and once again, it is driven by xenophobia, not facts.
Conclusion: A Call for Compassion
At its core, immigration is not about taking jobs, committing crimes, or any of the other baseless fears often associated with it. Immigrants are human beings—just like you and me—seeking safety, comfort, and love. They want a better future for themselves and their families, free from the violence, instability, and poverty they face in their home countries.
We must change our perspective on immigration and recognize that borders are not divinely ordained. Instead of focusing on exclusion and superiority, we should embrace a compassionate and justice-driven approach that acknowledges our shared humanity. The time has come to challenge the lies, reject the propaganda, and open our hearts to those in need.
The question we must ask ourselves is: Will we stand for justice, or will we allow fear and division to continue driving us apart?
Join us in this journey of hope and transformation. Follow Belle of the Light Books for more insights, support, and community as we navigate this pivotal time in history. Let's embrace the light, together.
Divine Femine
A poetic journey in addition to facts and stories that celebrate the universal bond of motherhood across cultures and continents. Through poignant verses and vibrant illustrations, this book captures the essence of motherhood as experienced by diverse women around the globe.
Contact us
Get in touch with us today to discuss how we can help you.