A “caravan” of individuals originating from various Central and South American countries began a foot journey to the United States last month. Starting off with literally thousands of individuals, the treacherous terrain, attrition, beginning of smaller groups, and offers of asylum in Mexico has reduced the numbers of this group dramatically. In fact, it is estimated that only 1,000-3,000 migrants – likely arriving in smaller groups as opposed to a single human mass – will reach the U.S. border…where they will be met by thousands of active-duty service members and National Guard personnel.
Instructors, click on the link below to download this week’s lecture for use in your classroom. In addition to the resources provided below, the deck contains discussion questions, an in-class activity, an online activity, and assessment questions.
Download the PowerPoint Lecture Spark for the Migrant Caravan
Learning Objective 1: Compare and contrast the potential benefits and consequences for American society should migrants in the caravan be granted asylum.
Learning Objective 2: Discuss the relationship between the social construction of immigrants and immigration in American culture and American politics.
Video
Additional Resources
John Holman, “Trump claims Middle Easterners part of migrant caravan” (Al Jazeera, Video/Text)
“Migrant caravan: What is it and why does it matter?” (BBC, Text)
“Migrant Caravan Top Of Mind For Voters Thousands Of Miles Away In Tennessee” (NPR, Audio/Text)
Jason Silverstein, Migrant caravan: What happens if it reaches the U.S. border?(CBS News, Video/Text)
Reihan Salam, “The Solution to the Caravan Crisis Is in Honduras” (The Atlantic, Text)
Jack Herrera, “THE CARAVAN OF HONDURAN MIGRANTS REVEALS THE FAILURES OF DETERRENT IMMIGRATION POLICY” (Pacific Standard, Text)
Dara Lind, “The migrant caravan, explained” (Vox, Text)