When millions of US voters hear the word "immigrant," they immediately picture ‘Mexican cartel thug’ or ‘violent Latino gang member.’
This dark stereotype is not just misleading, hateful, and racist—it's a hate-fueled fantasy narrative deliberately crafted by cynical oligarchs to make us flinch and vote against our own interests.
It should go without saying that there's a stark difference between immigrants and gang members.
If your primary concern this election year is "migrant crime", it's time to reflect on if you're being played by fearmongering propaganda.
How did we reach this point?
Who benefits from the perpetuation of cruel and vile xenophobia against those simply seeking a better life?
What forces are at play that have conditioned so many to equate immigrants with crime rather than opportunity?
Here’s a reality check:
1) "Migrant" is NOT a synonym for "gangster."
Some communities living in echo chambers of misinformation have been conditioned to equate them. This is an insidious bad faith appeal by those who wish to exploit racial tensions for political gain, distracting voters from issues that truly matter. It's a strategy designed to manipulate emotions and shift focus away from the real challenges we face as a society.
2) America's foundation is built on the contributions of immigrants.
They're the secret sauce that makes us special. Immigrants are the reason for our nation's enduring greatness, driving innovation and enriching our communities every day. Their stories of resilience and ambition continue to shape the American dream. As they overcome challenges and seize opportunities, they remind us of the boundless potential that immigrants bring to our nation.
3) Immigrants are the engine of the U.S. economy.
There's a world of difference between the average undocumented immigrant and the dehumanizing criminal caricatures often paraded in the tabloid-driven media, which is guaranteed to give undue coverage to crime of any kind. In reality, most immigrants are hardworking individuals contributing to industries that keep the nation running. Their efforts are vital, yet often overshadowed by demonizing hate speech that distorts public perception.
4) Anyone who tells you to fear "migrant crime" is pushing an agenda that benefits a select few at the expense of the 99%.
It's a classic bait-and-switch—these powerful voices aim to divert attention from candidates who support policies that favor the wealthy, leaving the rest of us to bear the burden. By stoking fear and division, they sidestep accountability and continue policies that widen the gap between the rich and everyone else. This exploitative propaganda distracts from the real issues that need addressing, such as economic inequality and the erosion of public services.
Most immigrants are peaceful, law-abiding individuals who work tirelessly in jobs many would refuse, often for meager wages. Deporting millions of immigrants would cripple our economy, leading to skyrocketing food prices and labor shortages in critical industries. Their contributions are essential to maintaining the backbone of sectors like agriculture, construction, and healthcare, which rely heavily on their dedication and hard work.
Not persuaded yet?
Here's a fun fact:
First-gen undocumented immigrants commit less crime per capita than American citizens.
Studies back this up, showing foreign-born individuals have lower crime rates throughout their lives. In California, U.S.-born men are incarcerated at rates over two-and-a-half times greater than their foreign-born peers.
Think about it:
If you risked everything for a better life, why would you throw it all away by attracting attention from law enforcement?
Those who cross borders in search of opportunity are unlikely to jeopardize their hard-won stability by engaging in criminal activity. The vast majority of undocumented immigrants live quietly with their heads down, contributing to society while striving to remain under the radar.
Before casting your vote, consider the motive behind those amplifying this dehumanizing rhetoric, which aims to divide us by scapegoating the vulnerable and sowing fear among our family and friends.
It’s time to step into their shoes and see beyond the stereotypes.
It's crucial for all who value truth to highlight this distinction and embrace the positive contributions of immigration.
Let's reimagine the national narrative and recognize immigrants for what they truly are—the heartbeat of America.
1. Jörg Spenkuch, Northwestern University, 2014. Published by the university.
2. Public Policy Institute of California, 2008.
3. Bianca Bersani, University of Massachusetts, 2014. Published in Justice Quarterly.
