Why the Work of the Immigrant Archive Project is More Important Now Than Ever

By Tony Hernandez – Founder of The Immigrant Archive Project

In a time when the contributions and struggles of immigrant communities are being systematically erased from public consciousness, the Immigrant Archive Project (IAP) stands as a powerful counterforce—preserving the stories that define America’s rich and diverse narrative. The IAP, the leading oral history project documenting the modern immigrant experience, is more than a repository of memories. It is an essential safeguard against the dangers of historical erasure, and its work has never been more crucial than it is today.

A Disturbing Trend: Erasure of Minority Contributions

Over the past several years, there has been a deliberate and systematic effort to minimize, and in some cases, completely erase the accomplishments and struggles of Latinos, African Americans, and other minority communities from federal websites and public platforms. Under the Trump administration, key content highlighting civil rights advancements, immigrant contributions, and the challenges faced by marginalized communities was removed or significantly altered.

• Civil Rights and Diversity Information Scrubbed: The Department of Justice (DOJ) deleted content about police reform and discrimination cases, while the Department of Labor (DOL) quietly removed pages that outlined the rights of immigrant and Latino workers.
• LGBTQ+ and Minority Protections Diminished: The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) erased information on healthcare protections for vulnerable communities, and initiatives that emphasized environmental justice for communities of color disappeared from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website.
• Immigrant Narratives Silenced: Content that celebrated the contributions of immigrants and recognized the importance of programs like Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) was replaced with a focus on enforcement and border security.

These actions not only distorted public perception of immigrant communities but also deepened societal divisions and fueled misinformation. In this climate of erasure, the Immigrant Archive Project serves as a critical lifeline—ensuring that the voices of immigrants are not just preserved, but amplified.

Corporate Retreat: DE&I Initiatives Under Threat

Equally troubling is the growing trend of leading American companies retreating from their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) initiatives—many of which were designed to uplift and support the U.S. Hispanic market. In the face of political pressure and the threat of federal backlash, some of the country’s most prominent corporations are scaling back their commitments to DE&I. These initiatives, once seen as an essential component of a company’s responsibility to reflect and serve the diverse communities they market to, are now being placed on the back burner.

This retreat not only threatens progress but also sends a chilling message to communities of color—that their contributions are being devalued and their experiences ignored. In an environment where even corporate champions are stepping back, the Immigrant Archive Project remains steadfast in its mission to elevate immigrant stories and ensure their rightful place in the American narrative.

Why the Immigrant Archive Project Matters More Than Ever

Preserving an Accurate Historical Record

The IAP collects and archives first-hand testimonies from immigrants of all backgrounds, safeguarding their experiences for future generations. At a time when immigrant stories are being silenced, these testimonies become invaluable primary sources that paint an unfiltered, authentic portrait of America’s evolving identity.

Giving Voice to the Marginalized

Erasure leads to invisibility. By amplifying the voices of immigrants, the IAP ensures that their journeys—often marked by sacrifice, resilience, and hope—are heard and acknowledged. These stories break through stereotypes and challenge one-dimensional narratives that reduce immigrants to political talking points.

Combating Misinformation

In the absence of truthful narratives, misinformation thrives. The IAP’s work provides a factual, human-centered counterpoint to divisive rhetoric that seeks to scapegoat immigrants. By showcasing the real-life contributions and struggles of immigrant communities, the IAP fosters understanding and empathy.

Protecting Democracy and Inclusivity

A healthy democracy thrives on diverse voices and perspectives. When those voices are muted, society becomes less inclusive and less just. The IAP’s work to document and share immigrant stories is an act of resistance against forces that seek to diminish the role of immigrants in shaping the nation.

The Consequences of Silence

The dangers of ignoring immigrant voices are profound. Historical erasure undermines efforts to address systemic inequalities, leaving future generations ill-equipped to understand and confront ongoing challenges. It weakens policy decisions, perpetuates discrimination, and erodes the fabric of a pluralistic democracy.
When immigrant stories disappear from the national conversation, we risk creating a society that forgets its own foundation—a nation built by individuals from diverse backgrounds who dared to dream and contribute. The IAP ensures that these stories do not fade into oblivion, preserving them as a testament to the enduring spirit of immigrants.

A Call to Action: Support the Immigrant Archive Project

In this critical moment, the marketing community has a unique opportunity to stand on the right side of history. As corporations grapple with the decision to either continue supporting DE&I efforts or succumb to external pressures, the IAP invites marketers, brands, and leaders who believe in the power of authentic storytelling to invest in preserving the voices of immigrants.

Supporting the Immigrant Archive Project is not just about documenting history—it’s about shaping the future. By backing the IAP’s mission, companies can reaffirm their commitment to inclusivity, ensure that immigrant narratives remain visible, and demonstrate to consumers that they stand for more than just profit—they stand for people.

Join a Growing List of Industry Leaders

The Immigrant Archive Project is proud to have earned the trust and support of some of America’s most respected brands, including McDonald’s, Farmers Insurance, DishLATINO, Bank of America, PepsiCo, Allstate Insurance, NGL miTu, Univision, Entravision, and many others. These companies have recognized the importance of elevating immigrant voices and preserving the stories that define our nation.

We invite the advertising and marketing community to follow their lead and consider working with the Immigrant Archive Project. By doing so, you will not only help preserve an essential part of America’s history but also send a powerful message that immigrant voices deserve to be heard, now and always.

In this moment of uncertainty, the Immigrant Archive Project is not just telling stories—it’s ensuring that America remembers who we are. Join us in keeping these stories alive.