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Multicultural Learning and Teaching

Editor-in-Chief: Obiakor, Festus / Algozzine, Robert

Managing Editor: Banks, Tachelle

Online
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2161-2412
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Immigration Reform and Education: Demystifying Mythologies about Latina/o Students

James Martinez / Ann Unterreiner / Antonette Aragon / Phillip Kellerman
Published Online: 2014-07-22 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.1515/mlt-2013-0014

Abstract

In this paper, the authors deconstruct commonly held mythologies about immigration to inform the critical discourse and support those educators who strive to be fair brokers of an inclusive educational system addressing the distinct needs of immigrant students. We (teacher educators and a community organizer) emphasize and clarify verifiable information that in fact refutes seven prevalent mythologies often articulated in the public debate. In our observations and experiences, this misinformation impacts decisions and fosters biases about Latina/o immigrants in the educational field, particularly impacting students from Mexico and Latin American countries. By debunking misinformation, we seek to inform a thoughtful discourse as advocates engaged to positively influence how these students are viewed by educators. This paper highlights evidence needed to advance the learning and educational success of Latina/o students. The hope of the authors is for a more thoughtful recognition of the immigrant student plight in the face of a nationally politicized and criminalized immigration stance.

Keywords: immigration reform; immigration myths; multiculturalism; teaching; DREAM Act; undocumented students; Latinos; Latinas; and education

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About the article

Published Online: 2014-07-22

Published in Print: 2016-03-01


Citation Information: Multicultural Learning and Teaching, Volume 11, Issue 1, Pages 29–51, ISSN (Online) 2161-2412, ISSN (Print) 2194-654X, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1515/mlt-2013-0014.

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