Achievement Quote by David Roediger
“As I wrote Working toward Whiteness, I came to see one historic task on the New Deal - and one in which it succeeded - as the fostering of fuller U.S. citizenship among immigrants from southern and eastern Europe and their kids. But this very achievement separated poorer and often despised immigrant workers from Europe and workers of color in unprecedented ways.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Working toward Whiteness, 1995
New Deal expanded citizenship for some immigrants, yet also deepened racial divisions.
In simple terms: Policies can both include and exclude.
Key Takeaway
Recognize hidden inequities.
Themes
history
policy
race
citizenship
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
historical
political
When to use this quote
- immigration reform
- education curricula
- community organizing
Key Concepts
critical race theory
social stratification
Questions to Reflect On
- What groups were left behind by the New Deal?
- How can we address lingering inequities?
A Different Perspective
Progress can mask new hierarchies.
