Transcendentalism vs Modernism?

I%26#039;m doing a debate on Modernism and Transcendentalism. My topic is immigration limits in America. I%26#039;m arguing on a transcendentalist point of view against modernism POV. I%26#039;m not sure if my opponent is for illegal immigration or against it. How do I support my stance? What should be my arguments be? THANKS