ColorLines has developed an impressive campaign calling for the media to drop the use of the word "illegals" in the media to describe people who are immigrants (documented or otherwise). There are a lot of reasons to support this, not the least of which is that the use of the "i-word" is not reasonable journalism; it stokes irrational fear and hatred of Hispanics and Latinos (whether or not they are immigrants). I was struck by this video's data on how the use of the "i-word" in the media has so sharply increased in recent years. I certainly don't believe that that increase correlates with more responsible or nuanced coverage of immigration.
Want to back up the campaign? Here's what you can do:
1. Sign the pledge to drop the I-Word.
2. Share on Facebook, Twitter, e-mail.
3. Use the campaign toolkit to host a local gathering.
4. Donate to the campaign.
5. Get the latest campaign news.
Also, on October 14 there will be campus teach-ins across the country on this issue (which you too can participate in or organize), and an online training on October 28 that you can join me in registering for now.
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