Overview
This lecture covers the Mexican Repatriation program of the 1930s, its impact on Mexican-American communities, and the later state apology for violations of civil liberties.
Background and Context
- The Mexican Repatriation began in 1929 during the Great Depression under President Hoover.
- The program was a response to economic crisis and high unemployment in the U.S.
- Authorities targeted people with Mexican ancestry to reduce competition for jobs.
Execution of the Repatriation Program
- Government and private entities aggressively removed persons of Mexican ancestry, often forcibly.
- Approximately 2 million people of Mexican ancestry were relocated to Mexico nationwide.
- About 1.2 million of those deported were U.S.-born citizens, including 400,000 from California.
- Massive raids targeted Mexican-American communities, often removing legal residents and citizens.
- Authorities indiscriminately labeled many as illegal aliens, regardless of legal status.
Consequences and Violations
- Families were separated, and many people never returned to the U.S.
- Deportees often lost homes and property, which authorities sold to cover transportation costs.
- Individuals were deprived of livelihoods, constitutional rights, and political participation.
- The program resulted in widespread denial of due process and equal protection under the law.
- Threats and violence coerced thousands into leaving the country.
State Apology and Memorialization
- California formally apologized in 2006 for the violations of civil liberties during the Repatriation.
- The state acknowledged suffering and hardship endured by affected individuals and families.
- A commemorative plaque was authorized to honor those impacted by the program.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Mexican Repatriation — The forced or coerced removal of people of Mexican descent from the U.S. during the 1930s.
- Due Process — Legal requirement that the government must respect all legal rights owed to individuals.
- Equal Protection — Constitutional guarantee that everyone be treated equally under the law.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the effects of the Great Depression on U.S. immigration policy.
- Read further on the 2006 California State Apology and its significance.