Rogerian Argument/Infographic: The Central American Migrant Debate

If President Trump is to be believed, the US southern border is in crisis, under siege from what he's called an "invasion" of Central Americans in so-called "migrant caravans." To his supporters, the southern border represents a breach in our country's security and sovereignty. Migrants, they say, will strain our already taxed resources, as well as introduce a host of problems, including crime. While it is true that there has been a recent increase in the number of migrants reaching the southern border, it is also true that the majority have been women and children seeking asylum—an act which is not illegal.To opponents, Trump's border crisis is a manufactured ploy designed to appeal to his base. They point to the disastrous effects of his anti-migrant policy, including the family separations and child detention centers. Further complicating this debate is President Trump's insistence on a wall along the US-Mexican border. Despite opposition from a majority of Americans, the president recently evoked the powers of a national emergency to secure the funds for his border wall. The wall aside, what is to be done about the influx of migrants seeking asylum at the border? With no end in sight for conflicts in Central America, what should Americans do with these asylum seekers? Using a Rogerian Argument by way of an infographic, propose a solution that bridges the divide on this debate.

For this assignment, all six components of a traditional Rogerian Argument (overview of the issue, summary of opposing view, statement of understanding, stating your position, statement of contexts, and common ground solution) should be illustrated in one of three areas on the slide: pro, con, and solution. Aim for some variation of THIS configuration. Also, find samples HERE and HERE.

Infographics are most easily utilized in PowerPoint (or a comparable program). Additionally, if you are experienced in them, you may also use Photoshop or Illustrator, though it is by no means required. This assignment will be delivered electronically.

A well-executed infographic will:

• Have a title that articulates your Rogerian Argument
• Have a design dictated by the topic
• Visually translate perspectives and facts in a clear and enlightening manner
• Stay within the parameters of the Central American migrants debate

You may choose your evidence from the articles below and/or from your own research:

• “The Migrant Caravan, Explained” (Vox) 
• "What's Real, and What's Not, About the U.S. Border Crisis" (CBC)
• "Trump's Wall: All You Need to Know about the US Border in Seven Charts" (BBC News)
• "State of the Union 2019: The Facts About the US-Mexico Border" (Vox)
• "Fact Check: What's Happening on the U.S.-Mexico Border?" (NPR) 
• "Nine Questions (and Answers) about the Central American Migrant Caravan" (WOLA)
• "Is There a Crisis at the US-Mexico Border? Six Essential Reads" (TheConversation)
• "Immigration Statistics Fast Facts" (CNN)
• "The Wall: The Real Costs of a Barrier Between the United States and Mexico" (Brookings Institute)
• '''A WALL is a WALL!' Trump Declares. But His Definition Has Shifted a Lot Over Time" (USA Today)

Due:
Mon 3.18-  Draft 1 (Draft 1; B&W hard copy or in electronic form)
Fri 3.22- (Final draft; email to dhdelao@gmail.com by 5PM)