| dc.description.abstract |
This thesis explores how DACA and the model minority stereotype affect self and public
perceptions of undocumented Asian American immigrants. An undocumented Asian American
immigrant was interviewed in depth about their life in regards to their documentation
status(es) and other forms of public media (videos, books, online articles) detailing
the lives of undocumented immigrants were analyzed. Along with these sources, public
reactions in the form of online, user-generated comments were recorded to gain insight
into how attitudes are shaped from certain messages promoted by media. By juxtaposing
both the ideas of citizenship promoted through DACA and the model minority stereotype,
the many factors that affect how undocumented Asian Americans are made more presentable
for citizenship in the eyes of the American public are explored. Additionally, definitions
of DACA are explored based on how it interacts with and emulates the model minority
stereotype. This thesis finds that undocumented Asian Americans are seen as more deserving
of citizenship because of racial stereotypes and arguments in favor of economic contribution
and social assimilation. This idea of proving one is deserving of citizenship through
contributions no born citizen of the United States is required to prove indicates
racism reiterated over and over again in American rhetoric of belonging.
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