Executive Order
Issued on January 25, 2017
Summary
The stated purpose of this executive order is to thwart threats to national security and public safety that emerge from the United States’ southern border. This is done by invoking existing laws such as the Secure Fence Act and the Immigration and Nationality Act and aiming to redouble efforts to execute them. Most significantly, the order promises the immediate construction of a physical border wall on the Southern border, though there is no reference to the source of financing. The order also promises expedited determinations of claims of eligibility to remain in the United States and more prompt deportations, though without laying out how this more robust enforcement would take place. LEARN MORE
Analysis
The public safety/national security premise of President Trump’s executive order rings false, given that immigrants have been found to have a below average crime rate. While the United States has immigration laws on the books that ought to be enforced, the current trend of Mexican immigration is away from the United States and back to Mexico, and the history of enforcement of this border shows that with more barriers to entry, successful undocumented immigrants are more likely to remain. The other main issue with this order is that it does not provide a plan to fund the border wall. Republican leaders estimate that a wall would cost $12 to 15 billion dollars, funds that President Trump cannot raise without the assistance of Congress. Though Trump has repeatedly said otherwise, it does not appear as though Mexico will pay for the wall. LEARN MORE
Engagement Resources
- Town Hall Project – This project compiles the open-to-the-public events held by state and local representatives. This provides a great opportunity to tell them that a border wall is not a prudent use of taxpayer money. You can also dial 1-844-6-RESIST to be redirected to the office of your local member of Congress.
- #Not1More – This non-profit organization aims to fight deportations through organizing, art, legislation, and action. Their website hosts a number of petitions to sign on individual deportation cases and many other resistance resources.
- Resistance Manual – Crisis Resources – If you know someone who is facing immigration troubles, please share this compendium of legal resources and relevant nonprofit organizations with them.
This brief was compiled by Oliver Bjornsson. If you have comments or want to add the name of your organization to this brief please contact oliver@usresistnews.org.
