Whose America?: U.S. Immigration Policy since 1980

Draconian immigration policies have been a centerpiece of contemporary politics, and Maria Cristina Garcia and Maddalena Marinari's works examine the post-1980 response to issues like undocumented immigration, economic shifts, national security, and human rights. Contributors engage with a wide range of ideas, including the effect of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act and other laws on the flow of migrants and forms of entry, the impact of neoliberalism and post-Cold War political realignment, the complexities of policing and border enforcement, and the experiences of immigrant groups in communities across the United States. Whose America? provides a sophisticated account of recent immigration policy while mapping the ideological struggle to answer the question of which people have the right to make America their home or refuge.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 18 July 2023
Publisher: University of Illinois Press

Immigration policies have been a central aspect of contemporary politics for a considerable time. Maria Cristina Garcia and Maddalena Marinari, editors of works that delve into the post-1980 response of legislation and policy to various issues such as undocumented immigration, economic shifts, national security, and human rights, have contributed significantly to this field. The contributors engage with a diverse range of ideas, exploring the impact of laws like the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act and other regulations on the flow of migrants and modes of entry. They also examine the influence of neoliberalism and post-Cold War political realignment, the complexities of policing and border enforcement, and the experiences of immigrant groups in communities across the United States.

Whose America? offers a comprehensive and nuanced analysis of recent immigration policy while tracing the ideological battle over who has the right to establish a home or find refuge in America. The contributors, who include prominent scholars and experts in the field, provide valuable insights into the historical, social, and political factors that have shaped immigration policies in the United States.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the impact of immigration on American society. Contributors discuss how immigration has contributed to the diversity and richness of the country, as well as the challenges and tensions that it has created. They examine the experiences of immigrant groups, including their struggles to access education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, as well as their contributions to the economy and culture.

Another important aspect of the book is the debate over immigration policy and its implications for national security. Contributors analyze the strategies used by governments to control immigration, including border enforcement, detention centers, and deportations. They also consider the ethical and legal considerations involved in these policies, such as the rights of immigrants and the impact on vulnerable communities.

The contributors to Whose America? also address the broader political context in which immigration policies are developed and implemented. They explore the role of political parties, interest groups, and public opinion in shaping immigration policy and the challenges faced by policymakers in navigating the complex terrain of public opinion and political polarization.

Overall, Whose America? provides a valuable and timely contribution to the ongoing debate over immigration policy in the United States. By engaging with a wide range of ideas and perspectives, the book offers readers a comprehensive understanding of the complex issues surrounding immigration and its impact on American society, politics, and culture.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780252045134