Theoretical Framework

Two of the Theoretical Frameworks that I used to explore and connect my research on are the Conflict Theory of Immigration and Stephan and Stephan’s Integrated Threat Theory (ITT)

Conflict Theory of Immigration

Conflict Theory was popularized by Karl Marx. Marx is criticized for his lack of analysis of the Haitian Revolution and the complexities of race and colonialism. The Haitian Revolution was a complicated and successful campaign to end slavery. The enslaved people of Haiti fought the French, Spanish and British. Following Haiti’s independence, the eastern part of Hispaniola, Santo Domingo was annexed. The people of Santo Domingo resisted Haitian occupation and declared themselves independent.

Marxism conflict theory is centered on structural power divisions and resource inequalities. Marxists emphasize power disparities and structural inequalities and suggest laws that serve the interests of the dominant or elite groups, often marginalizing or criminalizing less powerful groups. In the research I present restrictionist immigration laws that marginalize racialized migrants and asylum seekers.

Conflict Theory of Race

Conflict theorists argue that racism is a tool dominant groups use to maintain power and is embedded in existing social structures. It is extremely important to recognize the intersectionality of race and immigration. Migrants and asylum seekers experience discrimination based on race and ethnicity. Additionally, they experience oppression, social inequality, discrimination, stereotyping and marginalization.  

   There is no better body of law to illustrate the close nexus between race and class than U.S. immigration law and its enforcement. At bottom, U.S. immigration law historically has operated—and continues to operate—to prevent many poor and working noncitizens of color from migrating to, and harshly treating those living in, the United States. The laws are nothing less than a “magic mirror” into the nation’s collective consciousness about its perceived national identity—an identity that marginalizes poor and working immigrants of color and denies them full membership in American social life. ( Johnson.K)

Threat Theory of Immigration

   - Stephan and Stephan’s Integrated threat theory (ITT)

Attitudes toward immigrants and immigration have led to growing anti-immigrant sentiment both in the United States and the Dominican Republic. Both countries have handled the rise in immigration similarly. Stephan and Stephan’s integrated threat theory (ITT) proposes four types of threats: realistic threat, symbolic threat, negative stereotype, and intergroup anxiety. Stephan and Stephan’s ITT framework work to explain negative and prejudicial attitudes towards racialized groups. Symbolic threats are perceptions the dominant culture has about the out group/marginalized group because of cultural differences, morals, values, standards, beliefs.

Mission

This Compendium is created to demonstrate how Restrictionist Immigration policies in the United States are mirrored in the Dominican Republic. This Compendium will show evidence of restrictionist policies that have impacted the lives and rights of racialized migrants and asylum seekers. It is my posit that Antihaitianism, anti-immigrant sentiment, xenophobia have led to dehumanizing conditions for both documented and undocumented Haitians who have sought refuge in the Dominican Republic and the United States.

It is my posit that institutional racism exists within our immigration policies and that humanitarians, and advocates need to continue to address discriminatory immigration policies. Additionally, the public should be made aware of the normalization of anti-immigrant rhetoric that impacts the policies and lives of marginalized communities.