Oppose DHS Rules in Congress: No Forced Registration for Immigrants

Today I take pen in hand to write and urge you to legislate protections and to hold hearings with the Department of Homeland Security over their policy of forced registration of immigrants. This rule at Homeland Security — put into place and exploited by this administration is a disturbing and misguided policy that harkens back to some of the most shameful periods in American history. Requiring immigrants to carry proof of registration or face criminal prosecution will only breed fear, mistrust, and instability within communities. This draconian approach undermines America's founding ideals of equal rights and undermines public safety by driving people into the shadows. I don’t need to remind you of the historical examples of this like the internment of Japanese Americans during WWIl and the counterproductive NSEERS program after 9/11 demonstrate how registration policies target and alienate entire groups based on national origin without improving security. Instead of making anyone safer, this new rule will erode trust in law enforcement and disrupt the fabric of our neighborhoods as families are torn apart. Immigrants are vital members of our communities who contribute immensely to our shared prosperity and richness as a nation. This cruel registration process will force people to live in constant fear - afraid to go to work, take their children to school, or simply leave their homes. We cannot allow such an unjust and counterproductive policy to take effect. I urge you to press the Secretary of Homeland Security to reverse this discriminatory rule and take steps to build a more welcoming, inclusive America for all. If they refuse to do so, hold hearings and demand answers from Secretary Homan and his cronies, and legislate protections that will nullify the exercise of this rule.