Unraveling Nativism in Sweat

         In Lynn Nottage’s play “Sweat,” the concept of nativism is shown through the lives those in the working-class struggling economically. Nativism, the act of favoring those native to a country rather than immigrants, is subtly woven into the fabric of this narrative. This concept manifests multiple times in this play, mostly through the characters’ interactions and conversations. 

         While discussing Freddy Brunner burning down his house, Tracey makes stereotypical and racist comments towards Oscar. She implies that she could hire him to burn down her house, if needed, and when he is confused she responds, “You Puerto Ricans are burning shit down all over Reading, you know.” (Nottage 21). Not only did she assume his ethnicity but she pointed a finger at all Puerto Ricans for “burning shit down.” This xenophobia is also shown largely in the political landscape of America, especially through controversy about border control. The catchphrase, “Build the Wall” popularized by former president Donald Trump aroused racism sentiments and negative stereotypes against Hispanic people. 

         Jason, unashamed, calls Evan the n-slur while he was being interrogated in jail. (8). This racial slur has a deeply rooted history by being used as a tool of dehumanization for African-Americans. Despite being a small act of racism, it echoes the larger incidents of systemic racism that developed against black people in America. One recent example of this being the killing of George Floyd. His death was marked by police brutality which caused global commotion due to the racial injustice. Varying in severity, both instances highlight the deep-rooted racial biases that many still have. It disproportionately affects the black community even though they have lived in this country for a long time. 

         Tracey, similar to before, blames Cynthia for being a “fucking traitor” (79). Though, she does not understand the difficulties Cynthia has gone through for her race while working the line. On top of being mistreated as a worker, Cynthia admitted to also facing discrimination for her race. Yet, Tracey seems appalled at the fact that those of another race from her are flourishing in life. She carries the mindset that because she is white and a native of this country she should be living a better life. In America, many share these ideals where they believe that immigrants are “taking their jobs” and completely disregard the possibility of them working hard. This sentiment is fueled by xenophobia and completely overlooks the value immigrants bring to society. Additionally, it overlooks other issues having to do with employment like economic policies and automation. Recently, I saw an episode of “The Simpsons” which showed that robots could be replacing many jobs making many prone to unemployment. Yet, this is blamed on immigrants which doesn’t address the root cause but is used as a shield because it’s easy to be nativist.