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Teacher's Guide for FOOTSTEPS Black Immigration to the United StatesMarch 2001
Teacher Guide prepared by: Leslie Anderson Morales.
Objectives
- To distinguish between "conventional wisdom" and "reality" with regard to the black immigrant experience
- To examine the social and economic impact of "brain drain" on "country of origin" and "country of choice"
- To understand the factors that go into the decision to immigrate
People from Africa and the Caribbean have voluntarily immigrated to the United States since the 1500s. According to the 1990 Census, there were 1,938,348 Caribbean-born and 363,819 African-born residents of the United States. Within these geographic regions, many countries are represented.
- Describe economic and political events since 1980 that might have contributed to a person's decision to immigrate to the United States.
- How do you account for the preponderance of Caribbean-born people (relative to African-born people) in this country?
- Do you think "life is easier" in America for one group of immigrants than another? Support your statements with facts.
Even though the United States is a "nation of nations," the American people are ambivalent about immigration. Americans also struggle with tensions between races and within racial groups. What newcomers know about America and Americans is based on limited personal experience. The potential for conflict is great.
- Where do people in other countries get their information about America? Do you use the same sources that they use?
- Compare and contrast your personal experience of living in America to what you see on television or in the movies.
"Brain drain" refers to the exodus of professionals or highly skilled workers (pharmacists, teachers, computer programmers, and others) from one country to another. These workers might be established in their careers or just starting out.
- Make a list of occupations and professions that require a high level of training.
- What are the benefits to the country that receives skilled workers? What are the risks? What are the benefits and risks for the communities that skilled workers are leaving behind?
- Do you think that a nation should encourage skilled workers to come into the country? Should a country limit the number of skilled workers who want to leave?
Many people who immigrate to America already speak English. They have a support system in place. There's a lot at stake including goals and plans that might change.
- Pick a country where you speak the language. Imagine that you know a few people there. What else do you already know about the country including its people and their history? How would you go about learning more?
- You've moved to your new home and you're very busy with your new life. How would your life be different? How would it remain the same?
- After five years, you return to your country of origin for an extended visit. What would you tell your friends and family about your new home? Would you encourage them to join you? Why? Would you be honest with them about your experience or would you feel comfortable telling them only the good things?
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