U.S. Immigration, Foreign Policy, and Latin American Movements (1980s-2025) EXPORT

Neoliberalism (1980s, U.S.)

is an economic and political ideology emphasizing free markets, privatization, and deregulation. During the Reagan administration, policies such as tax cuts for corporations and reduced social spending increased economic inequality. These policies also worsened conditions in Central America, contributing to migration to the U.S. (Bans, Walls, Raids, Paik, 2013, pg.11)

Reagan (1981-1989, U.S.)

the 40th U.S. president, promoted neoliberal policies and conservative social programs. His administration passed the Immigration Reform and Control Act (1986) and largely ignored U.S.-backed violence in El Salvador. His policies contributed to instability in Latin America, driving refugee migration.

North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA, 1994, U.S.-Mexico-Canada)

removed trade barriers and tariffs between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. While benefiting corporations, it harmed Mexican small farmers, causing millions to lose jobs. The economic displacement fueled migration northward. (Bans, Walls, Raids, Paik, 2013, pg.11)

Operation Gatekeeper (1994-1995, San Diego, CA)

This Clinton-era border policy increased fencing, Border Patrol agents, and surveillance along the U.S.-Mexico border. It created the first immigration court at San Ysidro and expedited deportations. Migrants were forced into more dangerous crossing areas, increasing deaths.

Alex Odeh & Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC, 1980s, U.S.)

a Palestinian-American activist, led the ADC in defending Arab-American rights. He was assassinated in 1985 due to his advocacy against anti-Arab prejudice. His death highlighted the risks faced by ethnic minority activists.

Nakba (1947-present, Palestine/Israel)

refers to the displacement of Palestinians during the 1947 Arab-Israeli War. Thousands were forced from their homes as Israel was established. The event set the stage for ongoing conflicts and land dispossession.

Irv Rubin & Jewish Defense League (1985-2002, U.S.)

Rubin led the JDL, advocating violent tactics to defend Jewish communities. He planned bombings and was under trial at the time of his suicide. His actions and ideology mirror narratives of perceived threats and defense seen in other minority groups.

Central American Sanctuary Movement (1980s, U.S.)

Activists and churches provided shelter and aid to Salvadoran and Guatemalan refugees. They opposed U.S. foreign policy that backed oppressive governments in Central America. Their work challenged federal immigration restrictions.

Father Luis Olivares (1980s, Los Angeles, CA)

a Chicano Catholic priest, declared his church a sanctuary for refugees. He helped Central American families flee persecution and access safety. His activism was inspired by Cesar Chavez and the farmworkers' movement.

Alicia Rivera (1980s, Los Angeles, CA)

a Salvadoran refugee, assisted other refugees in navigating U.S. immigration policies. She became a key organizer within the sanctuary movement. Her work highlighted grassroots strategies to protect vulnerable communities.

Women of Conscience (1980s, Los Angeles, CA)

This feminist group, led by Cynthia Anderson, opposed deportations by blocking federal buildings. They practiced civil disobedience and highlighted women's leadership in activism. Their efforts drew public attention to refugee rights and inspired further grassroots movements.

Committee in Solidarity with the People of El Salvador (CISPES, 1980s-present, U.S.)

supported Salvadoran social movements and opposed U.S.-backed military interventions. They organized campaigns, educational programs, and advocacy efforts in solidarity with the FMLN. The group remains active today, continuing to support Central American communities and immigrant rights.

South Africa Anti-Apartheid Movement (1940s-1990s, Global)

- Activists worldwide opposed South Africa's system of racial segregation. Protests, strikes, and international pressure helped dismantle apartheid by the 1990s. The movement inspired global and U.S.-based campaigns for racial justice.

Farabundo Martí (1893-1932, El Salvador)

Martí was a Marxist revolutionary who led a 1932 peasant uprising in El Salvador. The revolt was violently suppressed, and he was executed. His legacy inspired future leftist movements and resistance against military oppression.

1932 Matanza (1932, El Salvador) -

The Salvadoran military killed tens of thousands of indigenous peasants after uprisings in 1932. Survivors abandoned cultural practices to avoid persecution. This massacre solidified long-term military dominance over Salvadoran society.

Archbishop Oscar Romero (1977-1980, El Salvador) - Romero spoke out against social injustice and government violence. He was assassinated while delivering Mass in 1980. His death became a symbol of resistance, inspiring human rights advocacy in El Salvador and abroad.

spoke out against social injustice and government violence. He was assassinated while delivering Mass in 1980. His death became a symbol of resistance, inspiring human rights advocacy in El Salvador and abroad.

El Mozote Massacre & Rufina Amaya (Dec 10-11, 1981, El Salvador)

- The Salvadoran Army killed over 900 civilians in El Mozote. Survivor Rufina Amaya publicly shared her eyewitness account to preserve historical memory. The massacre remains a central example of civil war atrocities in Central America.

4 U.S. Churchwomen (Dec 2, 1980, El Salvador)

Dorothy Kazel, Ita Ford, Maura Clarke, and Jean Donovan were murdered by the Salvadoran National Guard. They were targeted for their humanitarian work with civilians. Their deaths exposed U.S. complicity in foreign violence and sparked international outrage.

School of the Americas (1946-present, U.S.)

The SOA trained Latin American military personnel at Fort Benning, Georgia. Many graduates were implicated in human rights abuses across Central America. Activists dubbed it the "School of the Assassins" and protested its influence.

School of the Americas Awareness Week (1990s-present, U.S.)

This annual protest draws attention to human rights abuses linked to SOA graduates. Activists organize marches, vigils, and educational events. The campaign pressures U.S. policymakers to end military training that contributes to violence abroad.

Sacrificial Activism (1990s, U.S.)

- Activists risked their safety and freedom to oppose injustice, often facing arrest or threats. This included demonstrations at the SOA, immigration enforcement sites, and other government institutions. Latinx participants frequently bore disproportionate risk due to their visibility and vulnerability.

Crossing the Line(s) (concept plus protest strategy, 1990s, U.S.)

- This strategy involved physically or symbolically challenging boundaries set by authority. Activists would cross restricted areas or break laws to highlight injustice. The approach drew attention to systemic oppression and inspired civil disobedience campaigns.

Harvest of Empire (concept and film, 2012, U.S./Latin America)

- This term describes the connection between U.S. foreign policy in Latin America and migration to the U.S. The documentary explores wars, economic interventions, and political upheaval that fueled migration. It emphasizes how historical U.S. actions continue to shape immigrant experiences today.

Oscar Torres (1980s, El Salvador/U.S.)

- Torres was a Salvadoran refugee activist advocating for immigrant rights. He shared his personal experiences to raise awareness of U.S. policy impacts on refugees. His work strengthened the Central American sanctuary and advocacy movements.

Voces Inocentes (2004, Film/El Salvador)

This film depicts the experiences of children during the Salvadoran Civil War. It highlights the trauma, displacement, and resilience of youth affected by violence. The film connects historical atrocities to broader discussions of human rights and migration.

Jesuits Massacre (1989, El Salvador)

Six Jesuit priests, their housekeeper, and her daughter were murdered by the Salvadoran military. The killings targeted intellectual and religious voices advocating for peace and justice. The massacre revealed the extreme risks of opposing government and military oppression.

Berta Cáceres (1971-2016, Honduras)

Cáceres was an Indigenous environmental activist who defended land and water rights. She co-led the Lenca people against dam projects threatening their communities. Her assassination highlighted global risks faced by Indigenous and environmental defenders.

Tree of Life Massacre & Central American Caravans (2018, U.S.)

the massacre targeted a synagogue in Pittsburgh, reflecting rising anti-immigrant and anti-Semitic sentiment. Around the same time, Central American caravans migrated toward the U.S. seeking asylum. Both events highlight contemporary challenges in U.S. immigration, safety, and xenophobia.

Walmart El Paso Massacre & Great Replacement Theory (2019, El Paso, TX)

A mass shooting targeted Latinx shoppers, motivated by racist ideology. The perpetrator cited the "Great Replacement" theory, claiming immigrants threaten white populations. The event sparked discussions on domestic terrorism and anti-immigrant sentiment.

Proposition 187 (1994, California, U.S.)

aimed to deny public services to undocumented immigrants in California. It mobilized Latino communities, sparking protests and political engagement. Though initially passed, it was later ruled unconstitutional, but it permanently shifted the political landscape.

Mass Incarceration and Prison-Industrial Complex (1970s-present, U.S.)

refers to the rapid expansion of the U.S. prison system, disproportionately affecting Black and Latinx communities. The prison-industrial complex highlights the profit-driven nature of incarceration, linking private companies to prison labor. These systems reinforce racial and economic inequalities while limiting social mobility.

Aaron Bushnell (1980s, U.S.)

a 25-year-old U.S. Air Force service member who died by self-immolation outside the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., in February 2024. He carried out the act as a political protest against the war in Gaza, declaring he would "no longer be complicit in genocide." His death sparked national debate about U.S. foreign policy, military dissent, and the extremity of protest through self-harm.

1994 UCSB Hunger Strike (1994, Santa Barbara, CA)

Students staged a hunger strike demanding greater inclusion of Chicanx/Latinx studies and representation. The protest highlighted systemic inequalities in higher education. It strengthened student activism and institutional accountability at UCSB.

1968 North Hall Black Student Union Protest (1968, UCSB, CA)

Black students occupied North Hall to demand racial justice, better campus representation, and curriculum changes. Their actions pressured university administrators to address racial inequities. The protest became a model for student-led activism nationwide.

Naomi Garcia and Alma Flores (1990s, U.S.)

were community organizers advocating for immigrant rights and education access. They worked closely with local schools to support Latinx youth. Their activism strengthened grassroots networks and inspired young leaders.

Cynthia de la Rosa, Alejandra Mejia-Pulido, and Diana Sanchez Mural (1990s, Santa Barbara, CA)

These artists created murals celebrating Chicanx/Latinx culture and activism. Their work visually documented community struggles and achievements. Public art became a tool for education, resistance, and cultural pride.

Oscar Gomez Jr. (1980s-1990s, U.S.) - Gomez was a Chicano activist and scholar advocating for education equity. He highlighted systemic barriers for Latinx students in higher education. His work emphasized intellectual activism and community empowerment.

was a Chicano activist and scholar advocating for education equity. He highlighted systemic barriers for Latinx students in higher education. His work emphasized intellectual activism and community empowerment.

Zoraida Reyes (1980s-1990s, U.S.)

Reyes was a Latinx activist focused on immigrant rights and social justice campaigns. She organized community events to protect vulnerable populations. Her advocacy strengthened networks for Latinx solidarity and empowerment.

Muslim Ban (2017, U.S.)

Officially called Executive Order 13769, it restricted travel from several majority-Muslim countries. The policy sparked protests and legal challenges nationwide. It heightened awareness of religious discrimination and immigration law inequities.

Chinese Exclusion Act (1882, U.S.)

This federal law prohibited Chinese laborers from immigrating to the U.S. for ten years, marking the first major law restricting immigration based on nationality. It institutionalized racism and created legal precedents for future restrictive immigration policies.

Johnson-Reed Immigration Act (1924, U.S.)

- This law established strict national origin quotas that heavily favored European immigrants. It drastically limited immigration from Asia, Africa, and Southern and Eastern Europe. The act reinforced racial and ethnic hierarchies in U.S. immigration policy.

Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA, 1986, U.S.)

Signed by Reagan, IRCA legalized certain undocumented immigrants while penalizing employers who hired unauthorized workers. The act increased border enforcement and shaped future immigration debates. It reflected the tension between inclusion and punitive measures in U.S. immigration policy.

Plenary Powers (U.S. legal doctrine)

grant Congress and the executive broad authority over immigration. Courts have historically deferred to this power, limiting judicial review of immigration decisions. It underpins many restrictive immigration laws and enforcement practices.

Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act (IIRIRA, 1996, U.S.)

This law expanded deportation powers, increased border enforcement, and limited judicial review for immigrants. It created harsher consequences for undocumented immigrants. IIRIRA significantly influenced U.S. immigration policy for decades.

Family Separation / Zero Tolerance Policy (2018, U.S.)

Under this policy, children were separated from parents crossing the southern border illegally. It sparked national outrage and legal challenges. The policy highlighted human rights concerns and systemic cruelty in immigration enforcement.

Border Spectacle (concept, U.S.)

refers to the theatrical display of border security to reinforce fear and control. Media and government portrayals emphasize danger and reinforce xenophobia. This concept critiques how policy and perception intersect to justify harsh enforcement.

Fong Yue Ting v. United States (1893, U.S.)

The Supreme Court case upheld the government's right to deport non-citizens without trial. It reinforced the plenary powers doctrine. The ruling limited immigrants' legal protections under U.S. law.

9/11 and PATRIOT Act (2001, U.S.)

After the 9/11 attacks, the U.S. passed the PATRIOT Act to expand surveillance and counterterrorism powers. The law disproportionately affected Muslim, Arab, and South Asian communities. It shaped modern debates over civil liberties and national security.

Big, Beautiful Bill and ICE Funding (2025, U.S.)

This refers to congressional budget debates over Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) funding. "Big, Beautiful Bill" highlights symbolic political maneuvering around immigration enforcement budgets. Decisions directly affect detention, deportation, and border policies.

Abolitionist Sanctuary (21st century, U.S.)

movements protect immigrants while challenging the criminalization of migration. They create safe spaces, provide resources, and resist deportations. The movement connects historical sanctuary efforts to modern social justice advocacy.

Fort Sill Protest (2019, Fort Sill, OK)

Activists protested detention conditions and military involvement in immigrant enforcement at Fort Sill. Demonstrators emphasized human rights violations and systemic oppression. The protest drew national attention to the militarized treatment of immigrants.

Governor Pete Wilson (1991-1999, California, U.S.)

Wilson, California governor, supported anti-immigrant policies like Proposition 187. He pushed for stricter border enforcement and limited social services for undocumented immigrants. His policies fueled mobilization and political organization within Latino communities.

Juan Jose Gutierrez and One-Stop Immigration (1990s-2000s, Los Angeles, CA)

helped streamline immigration services for the Latino community through One-Stop centers. He provided guidance on paperwork, legal support, and advocacy resources. His work reduced barriers for immigrants navigating complex systems.

Gloria Molina and Antonia Hernandez (1980s-1990s, Los Angeles, CA)

advocated for Latino rights and immigrant protections in Los Angeles. They worked to increase political representation and social services access. Their leadership strengthened grassroots mobilization against discriminatory policies.

Gil Cedillo and L.A. Labor Movement (1990s-2000s, Los Angeles, CA)

collaborated with labor unions to fight anti-immigrant initiatives, including Proposition 187. He emphasized worker rights and equitable wages for Latino communities. Cedillo's efforts helped mobilize political participation among immigrants.

Proposition 187 (1994, California, U.S.)

aimed to deny public services to undocumented immigrants. It sparked mass protests and political activism in Latino communities. Although it passed in the vote, it was later ruled unconstitutional.

Proposition 187 and Rise of Latino Vote (1990s, California, U.S.)

- The backlash against Proposition 187 energized Latino voters. Communities organized politically to resist exclusionary policies. This activism increased Latino representation and influence in California politics.

Santa Barbara Grassroots Movement Against Proposition 187 (1994, Santa Barbara, CA)

Local organizers protested Proposition 187 through rallies, petitions, and public awareness campaigns. The movement highlighted the human impact of exclusionary laws. It contributed to the larger statewide resistance to the initiative.

2025 Summer of Resistance (2025, U.S.)

A coordinated wave of protests advocating immigrant rights, social justice, and racial equity. Activists challenged new restrictions and funding for enforcement agencies. The movement reflected a continuation of decades-long grassroots organizing.

Taxpayers Against 187 (1994, California, U.S.)

- This group opposed Proposition 187 through economic arguments and public campaigns. They emphasized the cost of denying services to undocumented residents. Their activism played a key role in mobilizing opposition to the initiative.

Racist Shock Policy (concept, U.S.)

- Racist shock policies are sudden, punitive measures targeting marginalized communities. They aim to instill fear and reinforce systemic oppression. Activists critique these policies as tools to manipulate public perception and maintain power.

Chicana High School Student Activism and MEChA (1980s-1990s, U.S.)

- Chicana students engaged in MEChA to fight educational inequality and advocate for immigrant rights. They organized protests, cultural events, and community programs. Their activism fostered leadership and empowerment among young Latinas.

Drum Major Instinct (concept, U.S.)

- This term refers to the human desire for recognition and leadership, discussed by Martin Luther King Jr. in relation to social justice movements. Activists use it to inspire service rather than selfish ambition. It emphasizes channeling personal drive toward collective progress.

Third Reconstruction (concept, U.S.)

- The Third Reconstruction describes contemporary efforts to achieve racial, social, and economic justice, following the Civil War and Civil Rights Movement. It involves legal reform, activism, and political advocacy. The concept highlights ongoing struggles to address systemic inequality.