Psychology In Seattle Podcast Immigration - Ch1 - A Brief History
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Aug 11, 2025 Explore the emotional complexities of immigration as personal memories intertwine with iconic cultural references. Dive into the intricate history of human migration to North America, from the Clovis people to the impacts of colonization. Discover how social hierarchies and racial classifications emerged alongside early citizenship rules in the U.S. Unveil the historical struggles faced by Irish and Chinese immigrants, and the discrimination against Japanese Americans, unveiling ongoing issues in immigration discourse.
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Airplane Ritual: 'Coming To America'
- Humberto Castaneda remembers airlines playing "Coming To America" on flights to the U.S. and feeling both hopeful and unnerved by the ritualized message.
- He says the song felt like a push toward assimilation even as it promised opportunity.
Family Fear During Policy Shifts
- Kirk Honda recounts real anxiety about family travel under recent U.S. immigration policies.
- He admits he was legitimately worried his mother might be detained at the border.
Earliest Migrations Were Complex
- Early migration into the Americas likely used a mix of land and sea routes over many millennia.
- Kirk Honda emphasizes the Beringia land bridge as a major route from Siberia into Alaska.