In “Postracial Fantasies and Zombies,” the speaker, Eric Watts,  goes on an interesting journey through the dark depths of cultural representations, exploring the intricate connections between the rhetoric of zombies and the historical experiences of black people. As he meticulously unravels the layers of meaning embedded within the concept of the zombie, Watts invites us to confront the unsettling truths that lurk beneath the surface of popular culture, beckoning us to navigate the complex interplay of race, power, and identity.

The speech commences with a seemingly innocent clip from the game show “Family Feud,” urging contestants to name something they know about zombies. Yet, from this seemingly trivial question, the speaker unveils a portal to a much broader exploration of how the figure of the zombie is intricately interwoven into the fabric of our collective consciousness. It becomes a lens through which we can dissect deeper societal issues, shining a light on the nuances of race relations, power dynamics, and the enduring search for identity.

A central theme that emerges from the reflection is the concept of zombies as a reflection of societal anxieties, particularly within the context of the so-called “post-racial” era. Watts carefully dissects the cultural atmosphere of 2013, a year marked by a proliferation of zombie-themed media, including the popular television series “The Walking Dead.” He suggests that this surge in fascination with the undead may be symptomatic of a deeper societal unease regarding race relations, especially in the aftermath of Barack Obama’s historic election, which, rather than assisting in a postracial world, unearthed and exacerbated existing racial tensions.

Drawing from a rich tapestry of historical narratives, Watts meticulously traces the evolution of the zombie from its nascent origins in the aftermath of the Haitian Revolution to its contemporary manifestations. Watts explore how the figure of the zombie has been co-opted to reinforce racial hierarchies and perpetuate harmful stereotypes about blackness, illustrating how the zombie serves as a reactive manifestation of society’s deepest fears and anxieties surrounding race, otherness, and the looming presence of a possible apocalypse.

Moreover, the speech delves into the intricate mechanics of representation, scrutinizing how the language and imagery surrounding zombies maintain notions of domination, control, and visceral enjoyment. The speaker introduces the concept of “biotropes,” arguing that the portrayal of zombies serves as a potent tool for reinforcing existing power structures and upholding the status quo. He meticulously critique the ways in which the zombie genre often glorifies violence and perpetuates harmful stereotypes, particularly in its depiction of black characters, who are frequently relegated to the role of expendable victims or mindless aggressors.

Throughout the discussion, Watts emphasizes the critical importance of contextualizing the portrayal of zombies within a broader historical and cultural framework. Calling attention to the enduring legacy of slavery, colonialism, and systemic oppression in shaping contemporary representations of blackness, urging us to confront the uncomfortable truths that lie at the heart of the zombie narrative and the wider cultural landscape. By meticulously dissecting the rhetoric surrounding zombies and its deep-rooted historical underpinnings, Watts extends a moving invitation to reassess our assumptions about popular culture and confront the deeper societal issues of race and identity that resonate throughout our collective consciousness.

Listening to the “A Different Take On Social Media And Democracy” podcast provided a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection between social media, journalism, and democracy. Through the lens of V’s experiences and insights, several key themes emerged, prompting reflection on the role of social media in shaping contemporary discourse and civic engagement. One of the central themes discussed was the evolving landscape of journalism and the trust we place in traditional news outlets. V’s reflections on questioning this trust resonated deeply, especially in an era marked by widespread misinformation and the erosion of trust in traditional news outlets like the New York Times, LA Times, CNN, CNBC, BBC new etc. Her emphasis on the need for transparency and accountability within journalism highlights the importance of critical engagement with media narratives.

V’s journey from TikTok creator to community builder highlighted the unique potential of social media platforms to foster meaningful connections and dialogue across generations. Her commitment to creating a safe yet dynamic space for discourse speaks to the responsibilities of content creators in balancing openness with moderation. By blocking certain words and actively engaging with her community, V exemplifies a proactive approach to cultivating an online environment conducive to constructive engagement. Moreover, V’s discussion on the role of social media in addressing feelings of loneliness struck a chord. In an increasingly fragmented society, social media has emerged as both a source of connection and a remedy for social isolation. The ability of platforms like TikTok to facilitate real-world gatherings and community events highlights the potential to alleviate loneliness and foster a sense of belonging.

The podcast also delved into the shifting dynamics of news consumption among younger generations, particularly Gen Z. Contrary to stereotypes of disengagement, V highlighted the remarkable civic engagement exhibited by Gen Z, driven by a combination of necessity and innovation. Her observations challenge misconceptions about younger generations’ apathy towards current affairs, emphasizing their active involvement in issues that impact them in the past, or how she puts it in areas that society has failed them like gun control. Furthermore, V’s insights into the changing landscape of news circulation focuses on the transformative impact of social media on traditional media outlets. The adaptation of news content to suit the preferences of online audiences, characterized by fast-paced videos and engaging formats, reflects a broader shift towards digital-first journalism. However, this evolution also raises concerns about the potential for sensationalism and the dilution of journalistic integrity in pursuit of likes and views.

One particularly important topic discussed was the importance of voter engagement and the efforts to mobilize younger demographics. V emphasized the need to earn rather than threaten young people’s participation in the democratic process, highlighting the role of influencers as gateways to civic engagement. By leveraging their platforms to educate and empower their audience, influencers like V play a crucial role in amplifying voter turnout and political awareness among younger demographics. In short, the “A Different Take On Social Media And Democracy” podcast offered a nuanced exploration of the complex interplay between social media, journalism, and democracy. Through V’s personal experiences and insights, listeners were invited to reconsider preconceived notions about social media’s impact on civic engagement and news consumption. Ultimately, the podcast highlighted the potential of social media as a catalyst for positive social change while also highlighting the challenges and responsibilities inherent in navigating the digital landscape.

Title:  Empowering Migrants: Navigating Asylum Challenges and Solutions at the Southern Border

Introduction:

Immigration has been part of American history since the beginning. The influx of migrants seeking asylum has surged. By the end of the 2022 fiscal year, the U.S. Border Patrol had encountered nearly 2.77 million migrants. Central to the asylum-seeking process is Title 42, a contentious measure that expels migrants, including asylum-seekers, amidst this surge, prompting legal challenges and political pressures on the Biden administration. Complicating matters further are the termination and ensuing legal battles surrounding the Trump-era “Remain in Mexico” policy, adding layers of complexity to asylum-seeking procedures.

Asylum seekers hail from diverse backgrounds, fleeing failing regimes, seeking economic opportunities, or escaping personal dangers such as poverty, violence, and corruption in their home countries. The backlog of asylum cases, totaling 750,000, underscores both the demand for asylum in the United States and the daunting challenges faced by those navigating the legal system.

In response to the backlog, the Biden administration has implemented measures to expedite case decisions and clear court backlogs. These initiatives include the introduction of new programs and the allocation of funding and resources to bolster asylum processing, such as the hiring of additional judges and staff. Addressing the root causes of economic migration, the administration has invested in job creation and development in countries like El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras.

Significant policy shifts from the Trump era have been observed, including the termination of the “Remain in Mexico” policy, the refusal to expel unaccompanied minors under Title 42, and the increase in refugee resettlement caps. Additionally, protections have been extended to DACA recipients. These policy changes have far-reaching implications for the treatment and processing of asylum-seekers at the southern border, influencing their access to legal pathways, protection, and opportunities for resettlement in the United States. Although the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services  department deals with immigration services there needs to be a change in how that institution works. Making sure that the refugees seeking asylum don’t lose confidence in the the ability of those who can help. (1) 

Legal Framework

An asylum seeker is a person who left their country and is seeking protections from persecution and serious human right violations. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that “everyone has the right to seek and enjoy asylum from persecution in other countries” (2). In the US there isn’t any many laws (that i have found) about asylum. There is one which is someone who is guaranteed asylum is allowed to legally remain in the country. Once a refugee is physically in the US there are 3 different process they can go though to guarantee asylum. The affirmative process, An Asylum Merits Interview after a positive credible fear determination, and The defensive process (4). The most common one being the affirmative process. In order to file for asylum you need to file out Form I-589 (Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal) within 1 year of arrival to the US (5). If the application gets accepted you then do fingerprints, background/security check, interview, and receive a decision (4). 

Outline: 

Intro

Legal Framework

Current Situation

1. Trends in asylum seekers at the Southern border
2. Challenges and complexities faced by asylum seekers
3. Capacity and resources of immigration authorities and processing facilities   

Policy Responses

1. Governmental policies and practices regarding asylum seekers
2. Changes and developments in asylum policies over time
3. Impact of policy decisions on asylum seekers and border communities

Humanitarian Considerations – might not include, still deciding

1. Vulnerabilities and risks faced by asylum seekers
2. Protection of human rights and dignity
3. Role of non-governmental organizations and humanitarian efforts

Challenges and Solutions

1. Legal and logistical challenges in processing asylum claims
2. Public opinion and political discourse surrounding asylum seekers
3. Balancing security concerns with humanitarian obligations

Conclusion

1. Summary of key points and findings
2. Call to action or recommendations for addressing asylum seeking at the Southern border
3. Importance of comprehensive and humane approaches to asylum policies and practices

Sources:

1. https://cqpress-sagepub-com.ezaccess.libraries.psu.edu/cqresearcher/report/cqr_ht_immigration_2022
2. https://www.amnesty.org/en/what-we-do/refugees-asylum-seekers-and-migrants/#:~:text=The%20Universal%20Declaration%20of%20Human,where%20they%20risk%20being%20persecuted
3. https://www.rescue.org/article/it-legal-cross-us-border-seek-asylum#:~:text=Under%20U.S.%20immigration%20law%2C%20a,of%2021%20to%20join%20them
4. https://www.uscis.gov/humanitarian/refugees-and-asylum/asylum/obtaining-asylum-in-the-united-states
5. https://www.uscis.gov/humanitarian/refugees-and-asylum/asylum#:~:text=If%20you%20are%20eligible%20for,arrival%20to%20the%20United%20States

Navigating Asylum: Challenges and Considerations at the Southern Border

Immigration has been part of American history since the beginning. The influx of migrants seeking asylum has surged. By the end of the 2022 fiscal year, the U.S. Border Patrol had encountered nearly 2.77 million migrants. Central to the asylum-seeking process is Title 42, a contentious measure that expels migrants, including asylum-seekers, amidst this surge, prompting legal challenges and political pressures on the Biden administration. Complicating matters further are the termination and ensuing legal battles surrounding the Trump-era “Remain in Mexico” policy, adding layers of complexity to asylum-seeking procedures.

Asylum seekers hail from diverse backgrounds, fleeing failing regimes, seeking economic opportunities, or escaping personal dangers such as poverty, violence, and corruption in their home countries. The backlog of asylum cases, totaling 750,000, underscores both the demand for asylum in the United States and the daunting challenges faced by those navigating the legal system.

In response to the backlog, the Biden administration has implemented measures to expedite case decisions and clear court backlogs. These initiatives include the introduction of new programs and the allocation of funding and resources to bolster asylum processing, such as the hiring of additional judges and staff. Addressing the root causes of economic migration, the administration has invested in job creation and development in countries like El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras.

Significant policy shifts from the Trump era have been observed, including the termination of the “Remain in Mexico” policy, the refusal to expel unaccompanied minors under Title 42, and the increase in refugee resettlement caps. Additionally, protections have been extended to DACA recipients. These policy changes have far-reaching implications for the treatment and processing of asylum-seekers at the southern border, influencing their access to legal pathways, protection, and opportunities for resettlement in the United States.

Coming up with my idea was relatively easy, the hard part was drafting it and taking out unnecessary details. In my first draft, I had about 300 words total but as I got in the zone I started to write more to the point where it exceeded the word count. As I read it over it didn’t make much sense it was all over the place. So I had to edit that version and for me at least it’s hard to take out details and determine whether they add or don’t add to the story especially because we have such as small word count. While recording I also hesitated or went too fast, causing me to rerecord. Overall I felt like I did a good job with this assignment.

Hi! Below are the topics for my blogs for this semester.

Personal is Political

For my Personal is Political Blog I decided to write about my experience growing up with an immigrant family. I plan on free-ranging the blogs and writing about topics that are connected to immigration and my experience as a first-generation student. I think that free-ranging my blogs will give me the flexibility to write about different topics that impacted me and tie it with growing up with immigrant parents.

Civic Issues

For my Civic Issues Blog, I plan on writing about the education system specifically the role of higher education such as college, and the importance of it as well as the privilege and luxury that it is. I also plan on incorporating the problems that higher education brings, as well as the struggles many face while being in college such as affordability and accessibility.

“I Believe in Preserving Culture”

Growing up with the influence of two very different cultures, I found myself subconsciously favoring one over the other, particularly when it came to something as personal as food. Being raised by Mexican parents meant that my culinary experience was immersed in the rich traditions of Mexican cuisine as well as American foods. My vibrant, aromatic kitchen was not just a place for meals but a hub of shared moments – from tackling homework at the dining table to simply observing my mom’s culinary skills. In this flavorful environment, traditional Mexican dishes took center stage. Most of the time I would ask to make spaghetti or to heat the frozen chicken tenders we kept in the fridge. The essence of Mexican cuisine lies in its abundance of spices and diverse flavors, creating a symphony for the senses. Although I might not have savored every dish, I was familiar with the series of flavors that adorned our family table. Surrounded by this culinary tapestry, my initial indifference to learning my mom’s recipes gradually transformed.

I hadn’t actively sought to delve into the workings of these traditional dishes. I never had any interest in learning to make Mexican dishes until I went to Mexico for Thanksgiving last year. Going to the country where my parents grew I had no idea what to expect.

On our way to “Las Grutas” a popular tourist destination, we stopped to eat at this small food stand owned by a humble family. It was just past sunset, and we had been driving all day. We went inside the makeshift tent and came across an empty table and a woman and her parents. Who looked to be in their 60s. They were very patient with us and made the food right in front of us. We had Consomé a soup-like dish that was mostly broth, and a mixture of vegetables as Tacos De Birria. As the only people there we were able to connect with the owners and make small talk. I hadn’t met such amiable people who were proud of who they were. While being there I was able to take it all in. Learning about their way of living and their traditions I was really surprised. I realized that we had a shared culture although we may not be living the same lives we were connected by the food we eat. Of all the restaurants we went to during our visit that was the one that held the most meaning and significance to me. Tasting the rich flavors that my mom has made before and coming to a point of realization.  Now anytime my parents make any Mexican dish I always help them in the kitchen.

We may all have the same ingredients, yet we have different ways of creating dishes that have significance and history. I believe that preserving culture no matter how big or small is essential to one’s growth. Our culture represents who we are and what we stand for. If we were to lose that then we lose a sense of self and therefore our history. If I hadn’t stumbled across the food stand then I wouldn’t have cared about learning more about my own culture and how important and meaningful it is to me. Without the kind strangers I met there I wouldn’t have realized the rich history and culture that Mexico holds.

Hi! Below are my ideas for my blogs this semester and the podcast.

“This I Believe” Podcast Ideas

My first idea for “This I Believe ” is to write about my struggles with anxiety and ultimately talk about the idea of asking for help and reaching out. Over the past years, I have dealt a lot with anxiety, and at the same time, coming into a new environment. With all that going on I was very hesitant to reach out for help and come face to face with my problems. The second idea I have for the podcast is to talk about going to school in a different district, than where I lived through a program. I would focus on my experiences at the school and emphasize the idea that education is power.

Personal is Political Blog Ideas

For my Personal Political blog, I’m going to be organizing it in a free-ranging style. A few of my ideas are to write from my experience growing up with an immigrant family. Both my parent immigrated to this country and I think it will be interesting to talk about certain topics from the perspective of a child of immigrants such as being first-gen and figuring college out for the first time. My second idea is being raised Catholic and how it changes my perspective on how I view certain topics.

Civic Issues Blog Ideas

For my civic issues blog my two main ideas were to write about the role of public education and the current teacher shortage that many districts are facing. I also thought about writing about sustainability specifically fast fashion as the topic of consumerism.

I’m excited to expand more on these ideas and share them with you.

Response to Question 1:

Throughout and after the pandemic, the use of masks has experienced a significant surge, becoming an integral part of daily life for some. More than ever before, people have adopted the practice of wearing masks as a preventive measure to protect themselves and others from various contagious diseases, including the common cold, the flu, and the notorious COVID-19. What was once an uncommon sight has now seamlessly woven itself into the fabric of societal norms. Even two years post-pandemic, the presence of mask-wearing persists, reflecting a collective consciousness about the importance of public health and safety. The continued occurrence of masks highlights a new societal normalcy, where individuals prioritize not only their well-being but also demonstrate a shared responsibility for the health of their communities. This cultural shift is evident in various aspects of daily life, from commuting on public transportation to shopping for groceries, where the sight of masked faces has become commonplace. The mask, once a symbol of crisis and uncertainty, has transformed into a symbol of prudence and consideration for others. The commonplace that mask-wearing represents is the noticeable manifestation of the value placed on the collective health of society. People have embraced the notion that their actions, such as wearing a mask, can contribute to the greater good by reducing the spread of contagious illnesses. This newborn sense of communal responsibility has fostered a culture where individuals are willing to make small sacrifices for the greater well-being of their fellow citizens. As the years have passed since the onset of the pandemic, the mask has become more than a physical barrier against pathogens; it has evolved into a symbolic shield symbolizing resilience and adaptability. The adaptability of societies worldwide to the ongoing presence of masks reflects humanity’s ability to embrace change for the greater good of public health. The mask, once a temporary necessity, has seamlessly integrated into the daily routines of individuals, reinforcing the collective commitment to safety and protection. The mask has also highlighted the commonplace of protecting one’s health. At the start of the pandemic, many people refused to use a mask and would in turn endanger themselves. As the pandemic became greater more and more people would start wearing them. However, the reason why many wouldn’t wear them was because they didn’t believe that the pandemic was real.  Many institutions would then require them to wear masks in other to enter the establishment. Coming together at the commonplace of protecting one’s health by force or by compliance. The enduring use of masks post-pandemic is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of society in the face of unprecedented challenges. Beyond being a physical defense against diseases, the mask has become a symbol of communal responsibility and a reflection of a society that prioritizes the well-being of its members. The normalization of mask-wearing stands as a long lasting legacy of the pandemic, reminding us that collective actions, no matter how small, can shape a safer and healthier future for all.

Response on Podcast Does Mandatory Civic Education Increase Voter Turnout?

As I was listening to the podcast, I was intrigued by the mention of the exam that high schoolers needed to take as a graduation requirement. It reminded me of the civics class that as seniors we were required to take. This class revolved around knowing about the US government and the history of our country. I remember that there was a brief mention of voting rights, but it wasn’t a major lesson. I think that an approach like this would be helpful since the podcast mentioned that if we give information on how to vote and how it works then it would lead to increase voter turnout. Although the class should have a complete lesson plan about voting. A positive aspect of the civic education program was to have a focus on providing information on how to vote. Giving valuable insights into the electoral process, from registering to understanding the significance of local and national elections. Additionally, the program would prepare students with resources to delve deeper into the intricacies of voting, ensuring that they had access to a wealth of knowledge beyond the classroom. A program like this would be crucial for high schoolers since most will turn 18 and would need to register to vote. In the podcast they mention the impact of the naturalization-style test that many students need to take, I am compelled to question its effectiveness in increasing voter turnout. While the intention behind the test was positive, aiming to ensure that students understood the fundamentals of civic engagement, its implementation appears to have limited short-term effects on voter participation. I believe to increase voter turnout we must target students in the classroom. This could be installing a program that teaches students about voting, promoting it within the school with flyers, and giving students incentives to complete a class or lesson to learn about voting. Mandatory civic education undoubtedly plays a crucial role in equipping students with the knowledge necessary for informed citizenship. The provision of resources and information on voting is worthy, serving as a valuable foundation for civic engagement. However, the effectiveness of the naturalization-style test in directly increasing voter turnout may be limited, especially when its focus extends beyond the immediate concerns of the electoral process. Many questions on the naturalization test don’t have to do with voting in turn don’t teach students about voting instead the history of the US. This is important but if the focus was to increase voter turnout it is not as effective to have those questions on the test.  As many younger students ages 16 and up approach adulthood and the responsibilities that come with it, they need to become informed about voting and the inner workings of the government.  Either informing them through classes or exams. There is also the possibility of informing through implementing policies that allow all students to get information not just the selected few, increasing the voter turnout in the long term not just the short term.