Understanding the Inhumane Threats of Mass Deportation and the Importance of Immigration Reform
President-elect Trump’s threats to swiftly implement a policy of mass deportation for immigrants in the United States without legal status, as well as end programs that provide lawful temporary protected status for many immigrants, are inhumane. Immigrant rights groups and legal experts have rightly sounded the alarm and are working actively to fight back and resist these actions, which could be announced on Day 1 of the Trump presidency. All of us—whether we or our families, friends and community members are directly impacted or not—have a stake in understanding why these policies are so harmful, morally reprehensible, and have no place in a democracy.
Immigration and America’s History
We in the US are part of a country whose history and present-day social and economic realities are deeply intertwined with and built on the experiences of immigrants, enslaved African Americans, and Indigenous peoples. Owning that history—the good and the bad—is a crucial part of what it means to be an American. And it’s the first step in charting a path to a better, fairer future for our country.
The Broken Immigration System
The current US system of immigration is clearly broken, and across the political spectrum there is a recognition that reforms are urgently needed. What is clear to all of us is that if we arbitrarily judge some immigrants to be “better” than others, we will inevitably risk reinforcing a system that is based on biased and unequal power and economic structures that are pervasive in the world today.
Impact on Food System and Climate Resilience
Mass deportation programs would have a significant negative impact on our nation’s food system, which relies heavily on immigrant labor. Additionally, immigrants play a crucial role in the aftermath of climate-related disasters, contributing to the rebuilding efforts and clean-up operations. Climate change is also leading to increased displacement and instability, further highlighting the need for a human rights-centered approach to address these challenges.
Shared Humanity and Immigration Policy
Hateful political rhetoric that demonizes immigrants only serves to further marginalize vulnerable populations and perpetuate fear and xenophobia. It’s up to all of us to stand up for the facts and advocate for a more humane and inclusive immigration policy that recognizes the contributions of immigrants to our economy and society. Mass deportations will not only cause harm and trauma but also undermine the fabric of our nation and economy.
Seeing our shared humanity and acting based on that principle is the best path forward on immigration and for our country of immigrants.
Here are some resources to learn more. Please share them with anyone who needs them.
