Notes on the Lecture: Language and Immigration

Overview

• Discussion on the term "illegal aliens" and its implications.
• Focus on a petition from Dartmouth University students to the Library of Congress regarding the dehumanization of the term.

Personal Connection

• Diane's Reflection:
  • Beauty of Dartmouth; connection to nature.
  • First memories of the US: mountains and the smell of tomatoes in Ventura, California.
  • Importance of belonging and identity in the context of being undocumented.

Higher Education and Identity

• Ivy League experience as a means of acceptance and identity.
• Transition from being an undocumented immigrant to an exceptional human being in academia.
• Importance of community and supporting undocumented students.

CoFIRED: Dartmouth Coalition for Immigration Reform, Equality, and DREAMers

• Formation of CoFIRED as a response to issues faced by undocumented students.
• Emphasis on the need to express voices and advocate for change.
• Shift from awareness to action in organizing.

Library Catalog Issues

• Melissa's Independent Study:
  • Discussion about subject headings in library catalogs.
  • Found the term "illegal aliens" in the subject headings; emotional reactions of disgust and perplexity.
  • Encountered pushback regarding the use of dehumanizing language.

Language as a Tool for Change

• The power of language in shaping perceptions of undocumented individuals.
• Previous experiences of being labeled as "illegal" and the impact on personal identity and social interactions.
• Recognition of how derogatory terms can dehumanize and marginalize individuals.

Activism and Institutional Change

• Students’ collective efforts to challenge the terminology used in library catalogs.
• Acknowledgment of historical language changes within the Library of Congress.
• Importance of addressing both language and policy in the fight for immigrant rights.

Legislative Response

• Backlash from Congress regarding the proposed change from "illegal aliens" to "undocumented immigrants."
• Political correctness versus historical terminology.
• Discussion of the implications of such terms in political discourse.

Impact of Activism

• The shift in perceptions of undocumented individuals and the evolving language used in media and politics.
• The significance of the Dartmouth students’ efforts in prompting a national dialogue about language and immigration.
• The role of librarians and educators in supporting activism and acknowledging the humanity of undocumented individuals.

Conclusion

• Reflection on the power dynamics between language, identity, and legal status.
• Recognition of the courage and resilience of undocumented activists.
• Understanding that change requires collective action and community support.