Redefining Borders: The Impact of New Immigration Policies on society and education

 Since the election of our new president, immigration laws have changed, impacting people worldwide.These laws are affecting our borders as well as those of other countries. Global immigration influences the political and economic landscape of our nation. The new laws reflect our government's policies, rights, and protections. Immigrants are not the only ones affected-these laws also shape the communities we all share. In Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis is pushing for legislation aimed at tightening border controls, redefining key immigration terms, and implementing programs to curb immigration.

On January 15th, just five days before Donald Trump was officially elected, DeSantis proposed actions

to support Trump's immigration plan, stating, "Florida is ready to lead." His proposed legislation includes expanding the definitions of "deportation" and "immigrant." Currently, deportation is defined as the expulsion of a person or group from a state's sovereign territory, while immigrants are defined as individuals residing in a country other than their birthplace. Although the revised definitions have not yet been officially released, DeSantis' plan is to create stricter regulations, that will discourage immigrants from even trying. Ultimately though, he's seeking to classify all types immigration as a state crime.

These changes affect younger generations as well. New legislation is restricting opportunities for immigrant students, limiting their future in the classroom. Teachers lose students, classmates are separated, and children miss out on opportunities. DeSantis also plans to repeal in-state college tuition for immigrant students, for not only state colleges, but higher education all together. Education is being threatened by politics. If schools are forced to follow through with these restrictions, tuition costs could rise for all students-those with access and those without. This affects more than just immigrant students, but all students looking to graduate. Around two years ago, in September, DeSantis signed bills restricting certain topics in schools. Newer bills focus on limiting who can be in the classroom. Many of the students are of immigrant descent, with parents who had greater access to education simply because of where they were born. Changing these laws condemns up to repeat history with such things as "the grandfather clause" in future generations.

Whenever a president or leader is elected, they bring new perspectives to the people. Positions of power should not be taken lightly, because it influences the feeling of our country around the world. Global events are considered global because they impact people both within and outside our borders. Our leaders represent us and project our nation's ideals that are globally, fundamental rights.

-Olivia Eichberg