Understanding the Use of Policy Narratives in Protests Among Russian Asylum Seekers in Guam

This study hears Russian asylum seekers protesting the United States’ asylum-seeking policies in Guam. Using a Qualitative Narrative Policy Framework, we analyzed the form and content of three strategically conveyed policy narratives: the right to free movement, deprivation and stolen lives, and a call for help. Stories plotting injustice, deterioration, and determination depicted some characters rightful and welcoming, others corrupt and silent. As entrapped and dying victims, they call on the rule of law and shared humanity to uphold their rights, demonstrating agentic and compelling means to contest oppressive policies and gather support.