Teleconference addresses anti-immigrant feelings

By Alessandra Djurklou
Staff Writer

USC was one of 60 sites that took part in a live teleconference Tuesday, which addressed the perceived rise in anti-immigrant sentiment in this country. Sponsored by the National Council of Churches of Christ, the teleconference focused on the theme "Building a Hospitable Community."
A panel of experts, including activists, theologists and ethicists, talked about the country's history of racism and xenophobia, pointing out that immigrant-bashing was nothing new. Experts also answered questions phoned in by participants in sites nationwide.
The panelists decried some popular perceptions about immigration. According to the National Immigration Forum, only 15 percent of immigrants are illegal. Also, the U.S. immigration rate is not as high as it once was. In 1990, immigrants constituted 8 percent of the population, down almost 50 percent from the percentage at the beginning of the century.
Proposition 187, the welfare reform bill and pending immigration legislation, each of which have drawn criticism from immigrants' rights activists, figured largely in the discussion.
"It's the scapegoating of immigrants," said Dr. Elizabeth Ferris, director of the immigration and refugee program for Church World Service. "People lash out at immigrants when the economy is bad. It's an election year."
"These propositions go far beyond just cracking down on illegals," San Francisco lawyer and activist Ignatius Bau said. "Even if you are a legal immigrant--you've lived here for decades and pay taxes--you won't get things like MedicAid and Social Security if you are poor and disabled."
Panelists spoke of the fear and uncertainty that have arisen over the bills. They said immigrants' voices were not being heard and that immigration is an inherent human right.
They called on participants to begin a local dialogue that would unite their communities.
One tactic suggested by the panel was the formation of "study circles," small groups of people of various ethnicities discussing and working together on issues that affect their community. Other tactics included making public service announcements discouraging immigrant-bashing and organizing events that celebrate multiculturalism.
On a federal level, panelists encouraged participants to write or call their senators and representatives. They also suggested gathering immigrants' stories to publicize a more personal perspective on the issue.
They ultimately encouraged people to remember that America was built by immigrants.
"When (Europeans) first came here, we received the citizens' hospitality," said Bishop Melvin G. Talbert, president of the NCC. "We need to return the favor, not push people out and shut the door."