To Call It Home serves the practical purposes of regional leaders
by offering comprehensive knowledge of the newest wave of immigrants to
southwestern Minnesota - Africans, Asians, and Hispanics. It responds to
such questions as who the newcomers are, why they came, and what they experience
upon arrival here. Special attention is paid to matters of social services,
housing, school, and crime. The book seeks a comparative understanding
of migration patterns and the different experiences of several food-processing
cities in southwestern Minnesota.
It is excellent. Just what is needed. It provides essential empirical data, but beyond that it brings a historical perspective and ethical/political sensibility to bear on the subject. I appreciate the differentiation among immigrant groups, towns, and even employers which is needed to transcend abstractions and stereotypes. Strong analysis, lean prose, a good piece of work. Bravo!
Rudolph J. Vecoli
Director of the Immigration History Research Center
University of Minnesota
