Is Dora the Explorer an illegal immigrant?

By SOPHIA TAREEN Associated Press Writer

CHICAGO (AP) - Since Arizona passed a controversial immigration law, one of the most recognizable cartoons in the world - and her immigration status - have been under scrutiny.

Doctored pictures of Dora the Explorer are being widely circulated online and through text messages.

Most question her immigration status, with many assuming she's an illegal immigrant from Mexico. In one on Facebook, she's sailing through the air over the border.

The pictures may seem harmless or even tasteless.

But experts say they reveal attitudes about race and where the immigration reform debate may be headed.

The show has never specified where Dora is from.

Dora is a Latina, but elements on the show suggest she may be Mexican, central American or even a U.S. Midwesterner.