Recent findings from a joint AAPI Data/AP-NORC poll revealed that nearly 70% of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AAPI) adults express disapproval of President Donald Trump's immigration policies, particularly in light of aggressive enforcement tactics. This figure marks an increase from 58% earlier this year, indicating a growing concern among the AAPI community over deportation practices and the deployment of military forces in immigration enforcement.
As federal immigration authorities ramp up actions, especially in major cities like Chicago, where over 1,000 arrests have occurred in recent weeks, AAPI respondents express discomfort with the sentiment of punitive methods being employed. Many believe that Trump has overstepped boundaries in efforts to 'secure' immigration.
Personal stories, such as that of Joie Meyer, illuminate the fears faced by AAPI individuals who worry about their legal status under current policies. If I was at risk of like being stripped away from my home, family, friends, everything I knew... that’s just heartbreaking, she noted, reflecting a common sentiment of vulnerability amid strict immigration laws.
Concerns Raised by Survey Participants
Among the survey participants, roughly two-thirds felt Trump has crossed a line with his enforcement policies. Comparatively, this sentiment is less echoed among other racial groups, which underscores a distinct perspective within the AAPI demographic.
Opinions diverge between American-born and foreign-born AAPI adults, with those born outside the U.S. showing more support for certain deportation efforts, highlighting a disparity in perspectives influenced by personal experiences with immigration.
The survey further illustrated that opposition towards harsh enforcement tactics is widespread. About 60% of AAPI adults disapprove of large-scale enforcement operations in immigrant-populated neighborhoods and practices such as detaining immigrants at workplaces. The echo of American history resonates with some participants who liken current deportation practices to the internment of Japanese Americans during WWII, sparking deep reflections on fairness and justice.
As the Trump administration continues its crackdown, the voices from within the AAPI community signal a powerful call for more humane immigration policies that reflect compassion and justice.
The poll included 1,027 AAPI individuals and was conducted between September 2-9, illustrating a significant moment for the community as they navigate their identities and experiences amidst a contentious political atmosphere.
