Know-Nothings Now: The Historical Consistency of Nativism, Normalization, and Erasure

• In Event: Roundtable Session 111
  In Roundtable Session: Globalization, Identities, and Lives on the Margins

Abstract

Reminiscent of eras in which nativism has thrived in the United States, recently instated educational policies mandating English immersion programs, English only classrooms and bans on cultural studies curricula have become increasingly common. Moreover it is likely that nativist sentiment will affect schooling for ethnic minority groups (Latina/o students in particular) in the foreseeable future (McLaren and Jaramillo, 2006). With uncanny historical consistency, the particular circumstances that lead to surges in nativist attitudes suggest such sentiments may be synchronous not only with increased immigration, but with intense economic turmoil as well. Based on that premise, this paper identifies the historical commonalities that serve as predictors of nativism's influence over educational policy.

Author

• Michael Silver, Arizona State University