In a progressive move, Illinois passed a bill allowing non-U.S. citizens with work authorization to become police officers. This echoes a growing national trend, challenging long-standing state laws rooted in early 20th-century nativism that restrict non-citizens from certain occupations. The shift began with the introduction of DACA in 2012 and has been reinforced by initiatives from organizations like the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights. Employing immigrants, especially in law enforcement, promotes community representation and public safety. For a detailed read, click here.
It doesn’t make sense to bar authorized immigrants from certain jobs Prohibitions stem from discrimination, xenophobia and an incomplete rights revolution in the 1970s Perspective by Allison Brownell Tirres
Illinois took a step toward inclusivity by passing a bill that, if signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker, would permit non-U.S. citizens with work authorization to serve as police officers. This move mirrors similar strides taken by states like California, with others like Nevada and Wisconsin contemplating such measures. This progressive trend recognizes the pivotal role of the nearly 13 million lawful permanent residents in the U.S. and the varied professions they occupy. However, many states still maintain archaic laws, rooted in early 20th-century nativism, that prevent immigrants from accessing certain jobs solely based on their non-citizen status. This discrimination has its roots in unfounded xenophobia. The 1970s witnessed a momentary rise in immigrant rights but was soon curtailed by the Supreme Court’s more conservative leanings. However, the advent of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) in 2012 refocused attention on citizenship discrimination. Today, Illinois is taking progressive steps, backed by entities like the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights and the Mexican American Legal Defense Fund, to dismantle such employment barriers. The core argument remains that employing diverse talent, especially in police forces, benefits community representation and public safety. To see the article, just click here