IMMIGRATION 7: D.I.M.’s Were Always Meant to be Excluded

 

D.I.M.’s Were Always Meant to be Excluded

Fellow Deportees, Immigrants, Migrants (D.I.M), we are neither alone nor witnessing anything new. Immigration Laws have long been fluctuating to fit, accommodate, and address seasonal global opportunities, and domestic needs throughout many nations. For example, during World War 1 and 2, to address workforce shortages and secure future scientific and technologic advantages, acquiring certain people were temporarily in high demand to maintain cultural and economic stability. But remember Oppenheimer, one of the key scientists responsible for creating the atomic bombs that put an end to Japanese war involvement. When conscience led him to quote Bhagavad Gita’s great statement, “I am become death, the destroyer of worlds”, he and those likeminded got labeled communists and ostracized from ever participating within the growing scientific community. Point!  When going contrary to the popular trend: Everyone is subject to persecution. And as for detention centers; they were used to contain Cuban refugees and round up American Japanese citizens who had their investments (homes and businesses) plundered.

So, get over it and collectively move forward! Brown, black or any others: We are not alone, exclusive or witnessing anything new. By initiating an old FBI tactic of surveillance, infiltration, and intimidation during the 60’s, presently called “Operation puppet master” (visit this site for details), “We are all subject to being regarded as expendable illegal immigrants, criminals, insurrectionist and protentional sleeper cell terrorist:” Without cause or warning. We are all subject to getting caught in the still spreading ICE net. Even the once protected families of military personnel are subject to present deportation practices. Even protesting military retirees, congressional and other political appointees are being stripped of rank, benefits and protection under presently revised laws and rights for due process. Even states, cities (like Minneapolis), institutions of worship and education opposing ICE practices are subject to losing much needed status and federal funding. Even National Guard personnel questioning their deployment roles in places (like Washington D.C.) are subject to sanctions. So, let’s not focus on resentments that turn anger into hate. Let’s get beyond the blame finger pointing and focus on the matter at hand. We, American Immigrants, Citizens from around the world were, and must reclaim our position as democratic models.

As for Mi Gente! My People! Citizens of Humanity! Understand: Laws and History are written, and censored, by the victors of conquest for plunder. But that doesn’t make them right, immune to correction or free of facts speaking for themselves. Not excluding the many other contributors but addressing the current media headlines, let’s consider Latinos with a seeming overlooked question: Why are they leaving their beloved countries and coming here? Has it not something to do with seeking asylum from persecution, life essentials for families with children, and opportunities as still inscribed on the Statue of Liberty? But let’s focus on their contributions to labor and taxes without social service benefits. Let’s look at their contributions to science, technology and industries at large.

Activist Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta created the United Farm Workers union for fair pay, safe conditions, and dignity for farm workers. The Mendez family led the landmark case in 1947 that ended public school segregation in California and paved the way for Brown v. Board of Education. Sonia Sotomayor became the first Hispanic and third female Supreme Court Justice. Dr. Ellen Ochoa was the first Latina woman to travel into space in 1993 and later served as Director of the Johnson Space Center. Playwright and composer Lin-Manuel Miranda revolutionized modern theater with hit Broadway musicals like Hamilton and In the Heights. Legendary artists like Celia Cruz popularized salsa music in the United States. Roberto Clemente, a powerhouse for the Pittsburgh Pirates, became the first Latino inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame and is remembered as a humanitarian. Additionally, Latino workers comprise nearly one-third in agriculture and make up a massive share of the nation's healthcare, construction, and transportation sectors. Also, Latino entrepreneurs drive billions in economic growth, leading major corporations, small local businesses, and cultural enterprises across the country.

In conclusion, “We are not alone.” It’s happening worldwide! We need to be united and proactive to get rid of the dividing lines. Point! “We The People” of America are ALL IMMIGRANTS MIGRATING seeking a home offering security and equal opportunity.”