A new policy by the Trump administration mandating that all individuals living illegally in the United States must register with the government and carry documentation has sparked fresh concerns about racial profiling and discrimination, even among legal immigrants, according to rights advocates.
Case Background
The move, which officially took effect on April 11 following a federal court ruling in favor of the administration, is being criticized by immigrant advocacy groups who fear it will lead to increased harassment, surveillance, and community distrust.
“It happens already to an extent,” said Jose Patino, Vice President of Education and External Affairs at a leading immigrant advocacy group. “I think this would make it even worse because how would you know somebody is undocumented?”
Critics argue that such policies could drive immigrant communities underground, making them less likely to report crimes or cooperate with authorities—potentially undermining public safety.
Despite the backlash, the administration insists it is simply enforcing existing law.
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem defended the measure, stating:
Administration
“The Trump administration will enforce all our immigration laws—we will not pick and choose which laws we will enforce. We must know who is in our country for the safety and security of our homeland and all Americans.”
The lawsuit challenging the policy, filed by immigrants’ rights groups, was dismissed earlier this month by a federal judge, allowing the administration to move forward with implementation.
As enforcement begins, immigrant communities and civil liberties organizations are bracing for what they fear could become a wave of discriminatory practices and increased tension between law enforcement and minority communities.
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