Abstract
This article analyses the local roots of the criminalised characterisation of Cuban refugees who resided in a Wisconsin detention centre during and after the so-called Mariel Exodus or Boatlift in 1980. Acknowledging the role of national media in espousing a violent and chaotic image of the Mariel Boatlift and its participants, who became known as ‘Marielitos’; it examines how local Wisconsin newspapers gravitated towards this representation, compounding its negative influence. The article then explains how the economic recession and rising concerns about deviant sexuality morphed media accounts of Cuban refugee struggles and uncovers narratives not captured by Marielito criminality. By doing so, the article complicates the understandings of refugee identities and experiences.
Highlights
Due to improved relations between the Cuban government and the United States, and a historical policy that painted the United States as a safe haven for Cuban refugees, on 17 March 1980, President Jimmy Carter signed the Refugee Act into law
West-central Wisconsin newspapers reinforced national media reporting by publishing articles and editorials about refugee violence at Fort McCoy and by printing stories suspecting Marielitos of committing crimes in area communities
Faced with media accounts detailing high unemployment, an economic recession, and Marielito violence and sexual deviancy, local residents could connect their financial miseries to the costs of refugee processing
Summary
Due to improved relations between the Cuban government and the United States, and a historical policy that painted the United States as a safe haven for Cuban refugees, on 17 March 1980, President Jimmy Carter signed the Refugee Act into law. Reports about the failing economy, the safety of area communities, and the financial implications of the refugee resettlement operation for west-central Wisconsin residents all influenced local media discussions of the alleged criminality of Cuban refugees.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
