Public health nursing and undocumented immigrant populations: Seeing through media hype on “illegal” immigrants, or what's in a word?

Background:

Concern for the health and welfare of populations drives the work of public health, including public health nursing (PHN). Historically, whites have constituted the largest populations in the U. S. Projections of population growth in the next decade predict a dramatic shift in U. S. racial/ethnic make-up. But what happens when racial and ethnic groups, previously in the minority, comprise the majority of the population? How have public health nurses positioned themselves to meet the needs of a diverse population, particularly the needs of undocumented immigrants—a group around which there is local, regional, and national dispute and debate?

The goal of health equity, embodied in this year's annual meeting theme, “Public Health without Borders,” mandates a commitment to justice and systematic assessment of health determinants. Racism, poverty, environmental exposures, wealth disparities, and social class play integral roles in influencing health equity. These elements come alive through the language used to portray immigrants living and working without juridical status in the U. S.

Purpose:

In this presentation, negative rhetoric and hate speech promulgated in the media about undocumented immigrants will be analyzed for undertones of racism, violence, and exclusion that are inimical to the health of undocumented immigrants. Alternative non-violent language about undocumented immigrants will be proposed for PH nurses to deploy in their practice, educate the public, and influence humane immigration policy development.

Methods:

Not applicable

Significance:

Understanding the power of language as a destructive or constructive tool is critical to knowing how to resist dehumanizing images, and deploying language that connects humans in relationships that promote health. How we talk about undocumented immigrants is crucial for supporting their efforts for health and dignity; for promoting all inclusive public health measures; and for positively influencing immigration and policy related to immigrant health care .