First, let me say that while a lot of the information in this book consists of facts that I am familiar with, there were some things that were really eye-opening.
I guess I never really considered the fact that not all of my students simply came here for a better life. Some of them may have fled their home countries or been forced out for various reasons. It's not so much that I didn't think this was possible for anyone, it's just that I don't know enough about the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. I immediately remembered a conversation that I had in December with a student who was saying "I lived in the capitol, Santo Domingo. A lot of times we were hungry and even when we ate, we were still hungry. There was a lot of crime and it just wasn't a nice place". This was something that I had anticipated. Students often come here with their families in search of something better, but that still doesn't factor in the trauma that they may have suffered before their big move.
Another piece of the book that really struck me was the idea that parents and children often switch roles once they settle in the United States. It was honestly something that I had never considered, even knowing the dynamics of many immigrant families. My best friend does everything for her mother. She helps run the family store, pays all of the bills, makes any important phone calls, and has really had to become super independent. It's just a connection that, until now, I didn't make with my students. They too might be in these situations. In fact, many like are in the same situation. I have many students whose parents "don't speak English". Whether that is to say limited English or zero English, I don't know.
Finally, the idea of leaving violence just to be thrust into a new world of violence really hit home. This year in particular there have been a lot of murders and violence related deaths that have affected my students. It's heartbreaking, but an unfortunate reality for many of my students who have been forced to settle into Lawrence. It is something that I never had to experience and something that I find shocking, but these students find it commonplace.
All in all, this book was an interesting read, but it was a tough one. I had to keep stopping to think. Knowing all of this information and knowing that most children of immigrants come here wanting to do well, how can I as a teacher ensure that they continue down that path? I don't want to see students come in with dreams that are later pushed aside so that they can "fit in". I try to convey my hope to them that, if they want to go to Harvard or they want to do something great, that they shouldn't let anything stand in their way. This book certainly sets the tone for understanding the situation, but it leaves a lot of questions about how to help.
Eric - I really like how you say "leaving violence just to be thrust into a new world of violence." This is just really the perfect way to describe it. It's so sad, but so true. Many immigrant students are probably fleeing their home countries in search of comfort, freedom, and safety. The fact that when they get here, most have to adjust to unfair treatment and racially charged violence is just heartbreaking. And the attacks named in Children of Immigration are just shocking. So many horrible crimes are being committed in the very place that might feel safest for these children: school. I think it's really interesting that you are able to relate the reading to your students in Lawrence, and it sounds like your awareness will do great things for your teaching.
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