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Michael Moore Highlights Potential Contributions of Deported Immigrants in Thought-Provoking Blog Post
Renowned filmmaker and activist Michael Moore has stirred significant conversation by emphasizing the invaluable contributions that deported migrants could have made to society. He published an insightful blog post detailing how America might be losing its chance at future innovators and visionaries through its current immigration policies.
In his piece titled “Our Muslim Boy Wonder,” Moore references Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, who was the son of a Syrian immigrant, to critique the deportation policies enacted by the previous administration. His argument focuses on the potential loss of transformative figures that could emerge from the immigrant community.
Questions That Resonate
Moore poses thought-provoking questions regarding who is truly being expelled from the United States. He asks, “Who’s really being removed by ICE tonight? The child who would’ve discovered the cure for cancer in 2046? The 9th-grade nerd who would’ve stopped that asteroid that’s gonna hit us in 2032? Do we care?” This rhetorical framing encourages readers to reflect on the broader implications of immigration policies.
In his evocative narrative, Moore expresses gratitude for the contributions of immigrants, stating, “I am grateful for that Muslim migrant baby being born here 70 years ago today.” He believes that without this individual, significant inventions and cultural shifts might never have occurred, further emphasizing the importance of immigrant contributions.
Appreciating Immigrant Contributions
Moore’s message extends beyond mere political critique. He urges people to celebrate the achievements of immigrants. He mentions that instead of harboring negative sentiments towards immigrants, one should express gratitude for those who have sacrificed their lives abroad to enrich American society.
Encouraging engagement and dialogue, Moore suggests sharing stories about the achievements of notable immigrants with friends and family who may hold reservations about immigration. He offers a list that includes figures such as theoretical physicist Albert Einstein and Gene Simmons from the rock band KISS, alongside politicians and activists like Representative Rashida Tlaib and Linda Sarsour.
Imagining a Different Reality
Moore delves deeper into hypothetical scenarios to illustrate the potential contributions of individuals who are being expelled. He envisions a situation where an immigrant, who was set to revitalize a community park, is instead deported and placed on a flight back to Guatemala. His narrative aims to evoke empathy and understanding regarding the challenges faced by many immigrants.
Through poignant examples, he describes a young woman in Boston whose aspirations were dashed when she was forcibly removed from her home. Moore speculates that she could have written an unforgettable sequel to Leonard Cohen’s poignant song “Hallelujah,” which would have enriched the cultural landscape.
The Ripple Effects of Deportation
Further exploring the ramifications of current immigration policies, Moore suggests that a young girl facing deportation could have grown up to be the scientist who discovers the cure for cancer. He vividly describes a mother’s heartbreak when her child is removed from her arms, leaving her wondering about the lost potential. Moore writes, “When I go to bed tonight, I will try not to think about the potential millions suffering from cancer some 30 years from now who might’ve lived had this little girl not been seen as a threat to our national security.” This invocation of potential loss serves to elevate the urgency of his argument.
Moore closes with a plea, stating, “God help us, and God bless America — and Steve Jobs.” His choice of words reinforces the idea that America’s strength lies in its diversity and the potential of every individual.
A Complex Perspective
Interestingly, while celebrating the contributions of immigrants, Moore has also made controversial remarks about native-born Americans. He has previously criticized aspects of American culture, suggesting that it is marked by a “laundry list of evil deeds”. Such statements illustrate the complexity of his viewpoint, which often challenges conventional narratives.
Ultimately, Moore’s blog post serves as a call for reflection on immigration policies and their broader societal implications. By painting a vivid picture of what could be lost, he invites readers to reconsider the value of compassion and inclusion in shaping a better future.
