Story: Schools And Businesses Brace For 'Day Without Immigrants', 04/28/06
http://www.pbs.org/newshour/extra/features/jan-june06/boycott_4-28.html

Reading Comprehension Questions:

1. What is expected to happen on May 1?

2. What is the purpose of the event?

3. Which businesses are especially dependent on immigrant labor? How are they preparing for the event?

4. Not all Latino leaders think the May 1 event is a good idea. Why?

5. Some leaders have suggested an alternative to the planned events. What are they?

6. How do some anti-immigration groups feel about the planned events on May 1?

Discussion Activity (more research might be needed):

1. There are various opinions within the Latino immigrant community about whether this boycott is a good idea? What do you think? Why do you think this? Explain your reasoning.

2. The leaders of "a day without an immigrant" want Americans to imagine the United States without immigrants. What do you think would happen if all immigrants to this country were not here anymore? How would your life be different? Would your life be better, worse or the same? Explain your answer.

3. Research the history of May Day. Where else is this day celebrated now and why? Why do you think the immigrant community chose this day for their boycott?

Write a 300-500 word essay on any of these topics providing clear examples. Send your completed editorial to NewsHour Extra (extra@newshour.org). Exceptional essays might be published on our Web site.