ARTICLE – MINI BIOGRAPHY – HISTORY
The Geary Act, enacted in 1892, represents a significant chapter in the history of American immigration law. Serving as an extension and reinforcement of the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, the Geary Act prolonged the era of discriminatory policies targeting Chinese immigrants and added further restrictions, marking a troubling period in U.S. history.
The Geary Act’s origins can be traced back to the growing anti-Chinese sentiment in the late 19th century. Initially enacted as a ten-year measure, the Chinese Exclusion Act faced expiration in 1892. Concerns over the potential influx of Chinese immigrants led to the introduction and passage of the Geary Act by the U.S. Congress. The legislation extended the exclusion period and intensified the restrictions imposed on the Chinese community in the United States.
One of the key provisions of the Geary Act mandated that Chinese immigrants carry identification papers, commonly referred to as “Chinese Exclusion Certificates,” at all times. Failure to produce these certificates upon demand could result in deportation or other penalties. This requirement subjected Chinese individuals to constant scrutiny and harassment, further marginalizing an already vulnerable community.
The Geary Act extended the Chinese Exclusion Act indefinitely, solidifying anti-Chinese sentiments and institutionalizing discriminatory practices. The act also imposed harsher penalties on those who assisted Chinese immigrants in evading the restrictions, including fines and imprisonment. The Chinese community faced increased challenges as the legislation reinforced stereotypes, perpetuated prejudice, and limited opportunities for social and economic advancement.
The enforcement of the Geary Act led to widespread protests and resistance within the Chinese American community. Advocacy groups and individuals worked tirelessly to challenge the discriminatory provisions of the act, asserting that it violated principles of equality and justice. Despite these efforts, the Geary Act remained in force until its eventual repeal in 1943 with the passage of the Magnuson Act.
The Geary Act, like the Chinese Exclusion Act, stands as a testament to a regrettable period in American history when xenophobia and discriminatory attitudes shaped immigration policies. The legislation contributed to the marginalization of the Chinese community and hindered the pursuit of the American Dream for countless individuals. The eventual repeal of such laws reflected a gradual shift toward more inclusive and equitable immigration policies. Still, the scars of these discriminatory practices continue to resonate in the collective memory of Chinese Americans and serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and equal treatment.
Discrimination has been a part of my vocabulary longer than I care to admit. Yet, I didn’t know it applies to people. I spent a good portion of my life fighting for freedom and all that it represents. I knew my country wasn’t perfect; I wasn’t that naive. How could I be as an African-American? I wish I had a better idea of the madness I was fighting against. Stay tuned for tomorrow when we conclude the series on Chinese Immigration Discrimination.
Mangus Khan 
On September 11, 2001, about 15 minutes after takeoff, American Airlines Flight 11 was highjacked by terrorists who killed one passenger, injured two others, and forced their way into the cockpit. They made the rest of the passengers and crew go to the rear of the plane, where stewardess Betty Ann Ong, an American of Chinese descent, was the first person to contact air authorities using the plane’s radiophone and telephone card. She told authorities on the ground that two stewardesses and a passenger had been stabbed, that no one could get into the cockpit, and informed the authorities of the seat locations of three of the highjackers, then stayed on the phone until the plane was crashed into the north tower of the World Trade Center. For this Betty Ann was named a hero by the 9/11 Commission.
Next time we’re tempted to judge a person by their appearance or ethnicity, we would all do well to realize that heroes come in many shapes and sizes, and we’re all human beings underneath.
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Wow, I’ve never heard of this brave lady. However, this is type of heroism are the legend I heard about as a child. The type of legend I may have tried to aspire to be. Thank you for sharing her story.
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