A Push to Overturn a Historical Injustice
Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) and Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-HI) have reintroduced the Neighbors Not Enemies Act, a bill to repeal the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 (AEA). The AEA is the last surviving statute from the infamous “Alien and Sedition Acts,” a set of laws known for targeting immigrants under the guise of national security. While the other three acts have expired or been repealed, the AEA remains in effect, allowing the president to detain or deport foreign nationals from a specific country during times of war or imminent threat.
Voices of Leadership Against Xenophobia
“We cannot allow antiquated laws to continue enabling discriminatory practices that harm immigrant communities,” said Rep. Omar. She highlighted the AEA’s role in past abuses, such as the internment of Japanese, Italian, and German-Americans during World War II, and warned of its potential misuse under modern administrations.
Sen. Hirono echoed these concerns, emphasizing that repealing the law would prevent its exploitation to justify mass deportations without due process. “The Neighbors Not Enemies Act would finally repeal this draconian, xenophobic law,” Hirono said, underscoring the legislation’s importance in protecting immigrant communities.
A Coalition for Change
The legislation has garnered support from numerous organizations and advocates, including Katherine Yon Ebright from the Brennan Center for Justice and Sumayyah Waheed of Muslim Advocates, who both stressed the law’s incompatibility with modern values.
The Japanese American Citizens League also weighed in, connecting the AEA to the wrongful internment of over 120,000 Japanese Americans during World War II. “Passage of the Neighbors Not Enemies Act will serve to ensure the individual rights that were so egregiously stolen during WWII,” the organization stated.
A Broad Base of Support
The bill has been cosponsored by a diverse group of over 40 lawmakers, including Rep. Pramila Jayapal, Rep. Rashida Tlaib, and Rep. Mark Takano. Additionally, it has received endorsements from more than 80 civil rights and advocacy organizations, such as the ACLU, Asian Americans Advancing Justice, Tsuru for Solidarity, and United We Dream Network.
A Step Toward Justice and Inclusion
The Neighbors Not Enemies Act seeks to close a dark chapter in American history by removing a law steeped in xenophobia and racism. By repealing the AEA, this legislation aims to protect immigrant communities and ensure that no administration can use such powers to discriminate against individuals based solely on nationality.
Learn More
The full bill text and further details are available for review. Let’s take this step toward justice and compassion by supporting the Neighbors Not Enemies Act.