Disposable Domestics: Immigrant Women Workers in the Global Economy (review)

Grace Chang's book is highly readable and relevant to anyone wanting to better understand the reality of the lives of low-wage women workers in the U.S. and the policies that maintain this workforce. She makes a compelling argument that U.S. foreign policies, migration, and domestic immigration and welfare policies are connected--and are designed to maintain a supply of low-wage, easily exploitable women workers. While she cites examples of historical immigration policies that exploit male workers (such as the bracero program), her analysis here is intentionally framed by a gender lens. She provides numerous examples of INS and welfare policies that perpetuate the feminization of poverty. These policies lead to a "multiracial race to the bottom" in which "the most vulnerable low-wage and poverty-wage contingent workers are falling to the same plight and often competing for the same exploitative and hazardous work."

The book is rich with examples of both anti-immigrant myths widely espoused in U.S. society and studies to counter those myths. Chang expresses a refreshingly overt indignation at the contradictory rhetoric and policies of government spokespersons, employers and middle and upper class U.S. citizens who benefit from anti-immigrant policies. And she cites from a wide variety of sources to substantiate her opinions.

The main drawback to the book is Chang's use of findings from interviews she conducted. She gives little or no information about her research methodology. In addition, some of her recurring arguments make the reading somewhat repetitive. However, this also contributes to the potential use of each chapter as a stand-alone essay.

Chang´s book is intended for a broad audience. It would be relevant in undergraduate classes and in labor education classes focused on immigrant or low wage workers, the global economy and/or U.S. welfare policies. Although the book would be most valuable when read in its entirety, individual chapters could also be used in isolation. Critical questions could be posed to stimulate discussion about how to confront the challenges presented in the book. For example, how do union organizing strategies need to change to meet the needs of the growing low-wage contingent workforce and to meet the challenge of employer anti-immigrant union-busting tactics? How can we build alliances between unionized, workfare and immigrant workers? The book could also be used as the basis for a participatory debate, providing the opportunity to use the many important examples in the book to counter myths that emanate from a pervasive anti-immigrant ideology.

Chang´s book provides a sobering reminder of the immense task ahead for all those working for a just society. However, it also provides inspiring examples of unions and community groups that have successfully organized to build coalitions and ensure that immigrant workers are treated with dignity and respect.