Rough Draft of Indepth analysis paper

Chikere
Wrt205
03.28.07

Blogs characteristically facilitate open corridors for communication and expression. Their ability to do so, works as a catalyst in creating new communities that transcend physical geographical borders. The attractive nature of these discourse communities possibly reside in non-discriminatory practices of its membership. Active participation in dialogue is not dependant upon academic credentials but rather the individual’s sense of community where all constituents have an equal voice. Immigration-activist blogs are possibly one of the most active discourse communities on the web. Conversation in these communities highlight that there are more regions of white and black than there are grey as members are sure to express their opinion, indicating the individuals are strong in their convictions. The purpose of this essay is to evaluate the impact of communication in realm of digital immigration activism; analyzing and applying David Weinberger’s theories on ‘togetherness’ and the ‘web public ’ to verify if his theories do in fact hold weight.

Within David Weinberger’s novel,’ Small pieces Loosely Joined; a unified theory of the Web’ the author asserts that since the web’s inception, it has consequently revolutionized concepts such as Space, Time and Togetherness (just to name a few), as we know them. Fundamentally he illustrates that the aforementioned concepts take different meanings dependant upon which scenario they should be interpreted; the real world or the internet. The following quote reflects Weinberger’s ideas of togetherness in the real world; ‘The bigger the crowd , the more faceless we each become, mirroring socially the physical fact that faces become smaller and smaller the farther back in the crowd they are.’ On the web however, togetherness is characteristically different. People enjoy the benefits of community and enjoy yet the luxury of being as visible as they deem fit. Ultimately the motive of this essay is to identify which realm has the greatest impact upon Immigration discourse communities.

Dissent within the community for immigration activism primarily regards illegal aliens who cross the Mexico boarder into America. As a result two generalized factions materialize; those who are in favor of illegal immigrants gaining certain privileges and the other faction pro immigration reform in the form of stringent control of US boarders. This is an ironic matter as both parties are unified on the basis of each wanting reform. In the real world these arguments fall into the strictly black and white categories either, pro-deportation and heighten domestic security or increased rights for illegal immigrants. Activists in these real world situations are forced to choose sides as there isn’t much room for middle ground. On the internet citizens who align themselves with either umbrella term can voice their sentiments about certain situations that aren’t being addressed. Therefore unlike the real worlds emphasis on black and white categorizations, the internet facilitates room for black white and all shades of gray.

A blogger by the name of Lau, expresses discontent over Lou Dobbs’ ideology of illegal immigration south of the border. Attempts to summarize Dobb’s viewpoint and assert their own with the following statements “He said among other things that people with Mexican descent who live in this country do not adapt to the American way of life, that we don't want to speak English and that we don't assimilate the American culture… the fact of the matter is that the words this gentleman is saying denotes great ignorance when it comes to border issues like immigration or historical and economic facts.” The commentary this individual provides is rather accurate when you examine certain references towards United States’ history, economic practices and culture. Lau argues, what is the American culture? The country was built at the expense of other nations and peoples, furthering the viewpoint of the nation a being a melting pot. Thus only through the commentary, a position on Immigration is voiced. Though pro-tougher border controls, Lau believes immigrants should be evaluated on the basis of why they seek refuge in the US and if they would be beneficial to the welfare of the Country. Secondly the question is who is Lau? Lau is a34 yr female American citizen, who lives in Texas, is of Mexican parentage and works in the public relations field. She is a the quintessential representation of Weinberger’s theory of togetherness in the web public. She is an individual, with individual concerns and voice. ‘On the web, each person is present only insofar as she has presented herself in an individual expression of her interests; many small faces, each distinct within the multitude (Weinberger).’