Date of Award
8-2009
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Anthropology
First Advisor
Dr. Ann Miles
Second Advisor
Dr. Sarah Hill
Third Advisor
Dr. Vincent Lyon-Callo
Access Setting
Masters Thesis-Campus Only
Abstract
The purpose of this master's thesis is to examine the underlying cultural perceptions of immigrants in the United States in online and offline worlds. In order to uncover these perceptions, I reviewed several anti-immigrant and pro-immigrant organizations' websites. Through nationalistic imagery and lists of recent immigrant crimes, anti-immigrant organizations promote ideals that set stereotype immigrants as "outside threats." Conversely, pro-immigrant organizations use stories of immigrants and refugees to show the humanity of a diverse population of immigrants, as well as to promote a sense of unity within a global community. In order to understand how popular perceptions of immigrants function in a local setting, I conducted interviews with several immigrant advocates in Southwest Michigan. Advocates attempt to combat antiimmigrant sentiments in various community outreach programs. While advocates are in a position to alleviate the suffering immigrants face, there is only so much they can do to combat the forces of structural violence that work against their clients. This research has implications for further studies on immigrant organizations, advocacy on the Internet, and the influences of structural violence in the lives of marginalized people.
Recommended Citation
Hyland, Amber N., ""Giving Face" to Immigrant Sentiments in the United States: An Analysis of Online Organizations and Advocates in Southwest Michigan" (2009). Masters Theses. 251.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/251