The Depiction of Immigration in Mexican Cinema: Promoting Citizenship and Legal Borders
When discussing the role of media in shaping public opinion, particularly in the context of immigration, it's important to delve into the nuanced depictions provided by Mexican cinema. Often, critics and commentators argue that these films promote illegal immigration by portraying the act as harmful and dangerous. However, a closer examination suggests that Mexican films often aim to emphasize the dangers and illicit aspects of crossing borders without legal authorization, ultimately promoting a culture of legal citizenship.
The Dangers of Illegality
Many Mexican movies depict border crossings and illegal immigration as perilous journeys fraught with danger. In films like 'The Golden Dream,' the dangers of illegal immigration are highlighted through graphic and brutal depictions. In the movie, one of the protagonists is murdered by an immigrant hunter, drawing a clear line between entering the United States illegally and encountering fatal dangers. Similarly, in another film, 'Matar o morir 1984' (To Kill or to be Killed), the story of a Mexican father searching for his son in the United States includes a harrowing scene where his son is found dead by an American police officer, adding another layer of danger associated with crossing the border illegally.
Marketing Legal Immigration
However, it's important to note that not all Mexican movies portraying immigration promote illegal crossing. Instead, they often highlight the positive aspects of obtaining legal status. In 'Okey Mister Pancho 1981,' the protagonist, La India Maria, travels to Houston to keep a promise. During her journey, she meets other illegals who complain about their difficult lives in the United States, leading her to question the American dream and appreciate the beauty of Mexico. This demonstrates a shift towards promoting legal immigration over illegal methods, as the movie suggests that crossing legally and settling in the U.S. is a preferable and more enjoyable experience.
Education and Cultural Promotion
Mexican films often serve as a teaching tool, reinforcing the idea that obtaining legal status is the proper way to enter and live in the United States. In 'The Golden Dream,' the protagonist realizes that crossing legally feels good and provides a sense of security that illegal methods cannot. This theme is further emphasized in soap operas, where characters who enter the U.S. illegally face dire consequences, while those who acquire legal status lead more stable lives. For instance, in one soap opera, a man who crosses illegally dies of dehydration in the desert, while another who returns legally does so with a sense of pride and contentment.
The Impact of Government and Media
The Mexican government and media play a significant role in shaping public perception of immigration. By using films to depict the dangers of illegal immigration and the benefits of legal status, they are indirectly promoting policies that encourage legal immigration. Critics argue that this strategy is crucial for maintaining positive relations with the United States and ensuring that migrants follow legal channels. Effective marketing and information campaigns help build a culture that values legality and respects the rule of law.
While some may argue that these depictions promote illegal immigration by highlighting the perceived attractiveness of crossing borders, the overall message is one of caution and legal adherence. Mexican cinema serves as a powerful medium for promoting legal immigration and the importance of following the proper channels to enter the United States.
From a broader perspective, these films contribute to a larger narrative that emphasizes the importance of legal migration and the dangers associated with illegal activity. By doing so, they help shape a more informed and responsible viewing audience, ultimately supporting the promotion of legal immigration policies.