The Economic Impact of Undocumented Workers in a Culture of Competition: Separating Truth from Myth

Northwest-Shoals Community College Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society members (Alpha Zeta Iota Chapter, Phil Campbell campus) developed a research-based service learning project based on Phi Theta Kappas Honors Study Topic, "The Culture of Competition." The theme of the project was Competition and Economics, with a primary emphasis on the economic impact of undocumented workers. The presentation provides examples of the elements of an Honors in Action service learning project, including research, leadership roles, leadership development actions, collaboration, service/advocacy, and impact/outcomes for the student participants and for the community. The group collaborated with Phi Theta Kappa Regional Officers and members across the state, Northwest-Shoals Community College Library staff, and Phi Theta Kappa Headquarters staff to research the topic and develop their project. They also worked with the NWSCC speech and audiovisual departments to prepare for and film interviews with students and community leaders. In addition, the group distributed a survey to assess beliefs about myths surrounding the issue of undocumented workers. The survey was followed up with a handout or link to provide more accurate information on undocumented workers. Some of the research conclusions include: Myths about undocumented workers may have led to prejudicial treatment and exclusionary attitudes toward this group of people, and labeling of those belonging to ethnic groups associated with undocumented workers. The economic impact may be understood to be a complex issue that is often oversimplified, with expressions of resentment and anger on both sides. Economic impact can go beyond merely financial loss, and can include loss of human capital as well Xenophobia and scape-goating is often a feature of cultures experiencing a financial downturn In a culture of competition, especially competition for jobs, those perceived as less powerful (the "out-group") may become victims of prejudice, blame, and social exclusion, and are somehow at fault for the "in-group's" economic woes The groups hope is to re-focus and clarify the issues through exposing the myths about undocumented workers, with the goal of building a culture of inclusiveness in our community, reducing feelings of hostility on both sides of the issue, and advocating for tolerance.
Presenters Magen Campbell, a graduate of Phil Campbell High School, is a sophomore majoring in Business at Northwest-Shoals Community College. Magen serves as Vice President of Communications for the Alpha Zeta Iota Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, and is a mentor for APPs Blueprints College Access Initiative at Phil Campbell High School. campbell_magen@yahoo.com Paige Baggett, a graduate of Russellville High School, is a sophomore majoring in Secondary Education (history) at Northwest-Shoals Community College. Paige serves as Vice President of Service for the Alpha Zeta Iota chapter of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, and is a mentor for APPS Blueprints College Access Initiative at Phil Campbell High School. paigeba7@yahoo.com