What does an immigrant look like to you? How do you define an immigrant in a country of immigrants? Do they look like you? Do they look like me?
There is no way to answer these questions without bias. Every word or idea is connected to memories, feelings, and knowledge we have. We all have a preconceived image of what an immigrant looks like, speaks like, and acts like. It's how we choose to use this image that sets us apart. Recognizing biases is the first step to being fair and equitable.
SB 1070 allows biases to control the actions of law enforcement. Instead of assuming innocence and citizenship, the law promotes acting on assumptions related to a person's skin color, language, dress, and other characteristics.
To read the law in full, visit this link: http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/49leg/2r/bills/sb1070s.pdf
When you read it, look for terminology that appears biased. For example, "compelling interest in cooperative enforcement" or the use of the term "alien" when referring to non-citizens and "person" when referring to citizens. What other language do you think is biased in the bill?
To see a video of the governor, Jan Brewer, signing SB 1070 view this link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2rMjVKAPqA&feature=player_embedded
Listen to her language regarding racial profiling. How do you think the law could lead to racial profiling? Is there any way for racial profiling to be stopped while this law is enforced?
Here is an interview with the Director of the ACLU in Arizona. She describes the bill and how she feels as a Latina living in the state. http://www.aclu.org/immigrants-rights-racial-justice/q-arizonas-sb1070-racial-profiling-bill
