Super Short Summary

Gatekeepers by Franca Iacovetta examines how post-World War II immigrants to Canada were shaped by "gatekeepers"—social workers, mental health professionals, and other authorities who sought to mold them into model Canadian citizens based on narrow "Anglo-Canadian middle-class ideals." The book explores the intersection of political, social, gender, sexual, and immigrant history in Cold War Canada, illustrating how these ideals reinforced class-based, racist, and sexist hierarchies. The narrative delves into the scrutiny of immigrants' domestic lives, dietary habits, and parenting practices, revealing an overarching aim to instill bourgeois values and political conformity. Iacovetta also highlights the specific challenges faced by women and critiques the intrusive and controlling policies of Canadian gatekeepers. The book concludes by connecting this historical period to contemporary responses to perceived threats such as Islamic extremism.