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Abstract

Border rhetoric can be a “muddy” topic for undergraduates, as borders are often taught as fixed, factual lines that divide places and people. However, from a communication perspective, borders are fluid, symbolic, and socially constructed. This difference between viewing borders as physical dividers versus rhetorical constructs creates a valuable opportunity for students to think critically about how meaning is shaped by borders of land, language, and identity.             This original teaching activity uses Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’ (D-NY) first House speech—the most-watched C-SPAN video within 12 hours of release (Gajanan, 2019)—as a central case. It invites students to analyze a key moment in US political history while expanding their understanding of rhetorical theory, governance, and congressional discourse. Designed for upper-level undergraduates with prior exposure to public speaking and rhetorical concepts, this activity is well-suited to courses such as rhetorical theory, advanced public speaking, public address, or critical communication. Although adaptable for international contexts, this version focuses on the United States, its governance, and its legacy ethos. Ultimately, the activity challenges students to think beyond national and linguistic boundaries, explore how meaning is constructed through rhetoric, and reflect on how borders and border rhetoric shape the pursuit of the American Dream.[1] [1] Throughout this manuscript the use of the word “American” refers to United States Americanism; this activity explores the “American Dream” as rooted in United States history and ethos.

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