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The political utility of the hoary ‘diseased immigrant’ trope
Throughout history, immigrants have often been used as convenient scapegoats for various societal problems. One of the oldest and most insidious tropes is that of the “diseased immigrant,” perpetuating the false notion that newcomers to a country bring with them illness and contagion.
This racist and xenophobic stereotype has been deployed time and again by politicians and demagogues seeking to exploit fear and prejudice for their own gain. By painting immigrants as carriers of disease, they seek to justify harsh immigration restrictions and draconian border policies.
The historical roots of the trope
The idea of the “diseased immigrant” has deep roots in American history, dating back to the early 20th century when waves of immigrants from Southern and Eastern Europe were met with suspicion and hostility. Politicians and nativist groups seized on fears of contagion to push for restrictive immigration laws, such as the Chinese Exclusion Act and the Immigration Act of 1924.
These laws were not only aimed at limiting the number of immigrants entering the country but also at keeping out those deemed “undesirable” due to their perceived health risks. This racialized view of immigrants as carriers of disease persisted through the 20th century and continues to influence immigration policy today.
The weaponization of fear
In recent years, we have seen a resurgence of anti-immigrant rhetoric that demonizes immigrants as threats to public health and safety. The Trump administration, in particular, has sought to weaponize fear of disease by conflating immigration with the spread of infectious illnesses such as COVID-19.
By stoking unfounded fears of immigrant “caravans” bringing disease across the border, politicians have been able to justify harsh immigration crackdowns and border enforcement measures. This fearmongering has real-world consequences, leading to the separation of families, the detention of asylum seekers in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, and the denial of essential healthcare services to vulnerable populations.
Challenging the narrative
It is crucial to push back against the dehumanizing and dangerous rhetoric that vilifies immigrants as carriers of disease. Immigration is not a threat to public health; in fact, studies have shown that immigrants are less likely to commit crimes or rely on public assistance than native-born citizens.
By challenging the “diseased immigrant” trope and promoting policies based on evidence and compassion, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all. It is time to reject the politics of fear and division and embrace a vision of immigration that upholds the dignity and rights of all individuals, regardless of their country of origin.
