by Harshini Rajachander/India Currents
Millions of immigrants in the US are watching the frightening wave of riots in the UK, led by right-wing activists, and fear that a second Trump presidency could result in an even more catastrophic and violent turn of events.
The violence that broke out across the UK in the past two weeks was sparked by the false rhetoric that an illegal immigrant was the suspect in a violent stabbing incident involving the tragic death of three young girls. Although it’s been proven multiple times over that the perpetrator was a British citizen, this false narrative has gripped the fevered imagination of the alt-right and has contributed to the vast spread of violence and destruction in the country.
For decades, Western politicians have leaned on xenophobic and anti-immigrant narratives to push their agendas. A landmark 2022 study shows that political campaigns centering on anti-immigration policies can sway electorates and win elections, but the perceived benefits will dissipate in the short term.
Anti-Immigrant Hate is Spreading
In the United States, anti-immigrant campaigns have existed ever since America itself was colonized and created. It started with the othering of Native Americans, then the Irish and Italian immigrants, followed by the Chinese railroad and gold mine workers, and has now finally landed on Mexicans and other South Americans.
But this time and in this age of social media, the anti-immigrant hate has been quick to spread outwards and bleed through a swathe of immigrant communities. During the previous Trump presidency, violent attacks against Asian communities surged and reached all-time highs.
With Kamala Harris leading the democratic charge and Usha Vance aiming for second lady status, Indian Americans too have entered the sightline of the far-right. Far-right activists have already unleashed a barrage of attacks against both Usha Vance and Kamala Harris, aiming for their Indian identity and DEI initiatives.
Read the full story in India Currents.
