#3: U.S. immigration laws are framed as inconsistent and unsuccessful.
One last pattern we noticed in the editorial cartoons was the criticizing of United States immigration policies. Almost every one of those cartoons had something in common: they framed the United States in a negative light. Some cartoons would mention the point that the immigration policies are changing too often; others would focus more on how every idea the U.S. has regarding the issue does not work. There were even cartoons that went as far as to say that our immigration policies are too harsh or discriminatory.
In the cartoon above, it illustrates a Latino immigrant coming over the border with their son. He is telling the son that "working hard" and "staying loyal to the country" could be his future path to citizenship in the United States. As they are coming out of the river, an elephant (representing the Republican party), is waiting with his foot held above the father and son saying "dream on." This represents the issue of the Republicans, known for being a more conservative party, and how they have a set of ideological beliefs that rule in congress. Looking at current immigration policies, it is clear that some lack consistency and fairness.
In the cartoon above, John Trever illustrates what he believes to be an accurate picture of U.S. immigration policies. At the door of an emergency room, stands the republicans and democrats from congress. Former President Bush is at the surgery table, as he stands next to the patient that had several knives stabbed into him (representing the "issue" of immigration). As Bush stands there puzzled, Congress says, "Well I suppose we could take another stab at it."
This cartoon is implying that the United States keeps using a "trial-error" method. We use an idea to help control immigration, and use that until something goes wrong. We then attempt to come up with a new idea, until that one fails as well. This cartoon represents more truth than "truthiness." The U.S. has a history of constantly changing policies, and coming up with new ideas for helping the immigration issue.
This international cartoon, drawn by Angel Boligan of Mexico City, illustrates the situation from a different standpoint. The artist makes a point that many immigrants come to America, due to the circumstances in their own country. Only to be eventually pushed back by the United States and their tough stance on living in the country illegally. This cartoon also represents more truth, as it points out that immigrants aren't just coming to America for no reason; the conditions in their native country are "forcing" them and their families out of the country. Many come to the United States in hopes of getting a job, and starting a new life for themselves, no matter the cost.
Overall, the cartoons representing the United States immigration laws represented more truth, as they just illustrated the fact that our government shows a lot of inconsistency and harsh ruling when it comes to the issue of illegal immigration.
Overall, the cartoons representing the United States immigration laws represented more truth, as they just illustrated the fact that our government shows a lot of inconsistency and harsh ruling when it comes to the issue of illegal immigration.
