Why Immigration is a Feminist Issue

[ismnotwasm]

In a recent panel discussion held by the National Organization for Women (NOW-NYC) on feminism for women of Color, I was asked why mainstream feminisms has not considered immigration a feminist issue.
As a transnational Latina feminist, immigration has always been one of my top priorities, right alongside reproductive justice and the wage/professional gap that affect mostly women like me.
As this question was presented to me, I struggled for a response because on the one hand, I don’t understand how an issue that disproportionately affects women and children is not considered a feminist priority, but on the other hand, I also understand that when something doesn’t directly affect a group of people, they are less likely to regard it as most important.
As transnational women of Color, we understand that if immigration reform is not a priority, our families will be the ones affected the most.
This has been said many times, but I’ll say it again: Mainstream feminists must listen to women of Color when they voice their struggles.
I don’t believe feminisms is a monolithic movement, so I understand why some feminist groups and organizations focus their work on the issues that affect their immediate communities.
But hear me out, and you’ll understand why immigration reform must be seen as a feminist issue foremost.
Gender Bias in the Immigration System

Our immigration system is steeped in gender biases that disproportionately affect women and children.

http://everydayfeminism.com/2013/12/immigration-feminist-issue/

[cinnabonbon]

1. kicked and recced n/t