Globalization includes the worldwide movement of people. Whether temporary or permanent, this global movement of citizens consists of countless stories and complexities which are the topic of a good percentage of global literature. Countries, and people arranged in unforgiving hierarchies, some poised to surge ahead while other groups will be forced behind.
All passports or rights associated with birth nationalities are not created equally.
If one’s birthright allows for extensive, visa-free global travel, it is easy to forget that this is not a right granted to many of the earth’s citizens. Cultural arrogance, as a result of many historical advantages, has often left a path of quiet suffering in its wake. Borders relentlessly rip families apart. This frequent wrenching of family ties is all too often the human story of globalization and is the topic of considerable global discussion. The current turmoil is related to the American executive order on immigration.
One of the countries caught in this ban(or attempted ban) is Iraq. Despite America’s agreement to share diplomatic and security ties, the American reliance on Iraqi forces in current conflicts, and 5000 American troops in Iraq, America has suspended traveling rights for Iraqis. Gordon and Schmitt's recent New York Times article, "Trump’s Immigration Order Jolts Iraqis, U.S.’s Top Allies Against ISIS. " outlines some of the issues with this nationalized othering. This decision ignores the American need for air bases in the Middle East, cultural expertise, and previous agreements. Cultural arrogance has left Iraqis stranded and maligned because of their nation of origin. This version of nationality has been repeated throughout history, damaging relationships and crushing the personal realities that fall on the wrong side of invisible barriers.
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