The Power of Stories: the Dreamers and Immigrant Rights

Name : _________________________________________________________________ Group : ________

When We Fight We Win!

Reading Comprehension Questions

Chapter 4, Part Two: “The Power of Stories: the Dreamers and Immigrant Rights” (pages 89 to 101)

Comprehension

Answer the questions that follow using complete sentences and your own words.

1.  What does the march to Washington and Rosa Parks’ refusal to give her seat to a white man symbolize?

It represented an act of civil disobedience to show people that they are not going to be in the shadows anymore.

2. What did the four DREAMERs discover that was more important than the sole action of walking?

They realized that connecting with the communities where they were walking through was more important. They could empower them.

3. Which specific example shows the effectiveness of telling stories to change someone’s perspective?

Pacheco remembers that one man in particular changed his opinion on undocumented immigrants. He initially hated them. After he and Pacheco discussed, he actually said “I’m sorry”.

4. Why did Juan Rodriguez and Felipe Matos decide to hide their gay relationship during the Trail of Dreams? How did that decision affect them personally?

They reluctantly decided to hide they gay relationship to protect their group. The situation was already very tense. They didn’t want to put any more pressure.

5. What was the non-violent Serbian youth movement Otpor! famous for?

It was famous for its creative use of public theater in street demonstrations, boycotts, and occupations.

6. What gave the DREAMERs the strength to continue their march even though they were facing fierce opposition?

The spirit of their ancestors and the people that had fought for them in the past gave them that strength.

7. Why did Juan Rodriguez refuse to shake President Obama’s hand?

His presence and demonstration of disappointment represented the families who had been separated by the deportations.

8. What did President Obama do following the DREAMERs’ hunger strike in Washington?

He ordered his administration to stop deporting undocumented citizens who would be eligible for the DREAM Act. 

9. Give two examples that show the direct results of the DACA Program.

Amongst DACA beneficiaries, 60 % reported getting a new job and obtaining a driver’s licence. Nearly 50% opened a bank account and increased their earnings. Also, many of them went to college.

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