In this webquest, I will have you look at an interview with the filmmakers, Carlos Sandoval and Catherine Tambini. You will see what has happened in Farmingville since the film has been made. I will also show you the pros and cons of each side through the websites of the various organizations represented in the film.
Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame
With conquering limbs astride from land to land;
Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand
A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame
Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name
Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand
Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command
The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame,
"Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!" cries she
with silent lips. "Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore,
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"
- Emma Lazarus, New York City, 1883
1. Look carefully at the language used in the poem. What image is presented of immigrants? How is America represented? What feeling does this poem convey of America's relationship towards immigrants?
2. How does this relate to the immigrant situation in Farmingville?
3. Do you think Americans feel this way towards immigrants today in the 21st century? Why or why not?
Please email me with your answers at [email protected]. This email will count as part of your final grade for this webquest so don't forget!