The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is evaluating a television proposal to create a reality show in which immigrants would compete in civic and cultural tests to qualify for U.S. citizenship. The idea, promoted by producer Rob Worsoff, has not yet been approved or rejected, the agency confirmed to the New York Times and The Wall Street Journal.
The initiative has generated intense debate in political and media circles, especially following initial reports by the Daily Mail suggesting an alleged endorsement by Kristi Noem, the current DHS secretary under President Donald Trump. Noem, however, categorically denied knowledge of or support for the proposal, via a statement issued by her office.
Process in initial phase
Tricia McLaughlin, DHS undersecretary, clarified that the government receives hundreds of audiovisual proposals each year.
And they undergo a rigorous review process.
He added that these types of projects can have educational value if presented in a respectful and legal manner.
But he reiterated that this particular one has not been approved.
Necesitamos revitalizar el patriotismo y el deber cívico en este país
Tricia McLaughlin
McLaughlin referred to the rationale that could justify such initiatives, as long as immigration law is respected.
What would the program consist of?
Buzzy
According to the concept presented by Worsoff, the program would not aim to eliminate or ridicule participants, and would not involve deportations in case of failure to win.
The tests would be modeled on the actual requirements of the naturalization process, such as the U.S. history, culture and civics test.
“It’s not a ‘Hunger Game’ for immigrants,” Worsoff said, referring to criticism.
“The idea is to highlight the value of becoming a citizen (obtaining U.S. citizenship).”
In Context
This proposal comes at a time when the Trump Administration has resumed restrictive immigration policies.
Such as the proposal to limit U.S. citizenship by birth to children of undocumented immigrants or those with temporary visas, which was defended this week before the Supreme Court.
According to the Migration Policy Institute, this measure could affect hundreds of thousands of children born on U.S. soil each year.
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