America was founded on the principles of equality and freedom, yet recently the U.S. has not been reflecting those values.
During his first weeks as president, President Trump signed many executive orders, including an order banning anyone from seven predominately Muslim countries from entering the U.S.
President Trump’s idea of extreme vetting does not ensure a safer country, but rather reflects a discriminatory mindset.
The travel ban is discriminatory because it singles out areas of the world that have a dominant religion, that many Americans are weary of, subtly declaring people from those countries are no longer safe and should not be allowed into the U.S.
The travel ban highlights a deeply rooted fear many Americans are able to recognize. A fear and stereotype of individuals who practice the Islamic faith—believing they’re intentions are to harm the American public.
A fear that people who are not of a Caucasian race or descent have intentions to harm the U.S. and I do not deny that there are examples in history that exemplify radicalism, yet radicalism does not necessarily pertain to any race or religion.
The Trump administration has argued that the ban is not against Muslims, yet the ban feels as though it is directed towards those who practice the Islamic faith.
While many federal judges have overturned parts of the travel ban, the ban is inhibiting families from reuniting and students from furthering their education. The ban is not preventing potential harm and threats from entering our borders, yet has become a barrier for innocent people trying to succeed or find refuge within our borders.
As a result of the ban, protests broke out across the country. Many U.S. airports were rightfully filled with protesters who fundamentally disagree with the ban because it does not mirror the country’s values. Even public leaders have begun to denounce President Trump’s actions because his actions are not reflecting his position as the leader of the free world.
The U.S used to be rested on principles of inclusion, making the country a melting pot and a place where people can feel as though they belong. The country has a long-standing history of fighting for people around the world, asking other countries to treat people within their borders better.
However, the U.S. now has a double standard because our new president cannot fathom the idea of treating people who do not look like him or come from a similar background as him with dignity or respect.
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Images:
Mr. Trump at UNC (Reuters/Carlo Allegri)
