Sen. Dick Durbin Compares ICE to WWII Japanese Internment Camps: ‘There’s Only One Parallel in History’

Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) recently made a bold statement comparing the actions of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. In a speech on the Senate floor, Durbin stated, “There’s only one parallel in history that I can think of, and that’s the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II.”

This comparison has sparked controversy and debate, with some praising Durbin for shedding light on a dark moment in American history, while others criticize him for making such a bold comparison. However, it is important to examine the facts and understand the context in which Durbin made this statement.

During World War II, over 120,000 Japanese Americans were forcibly removed from their homes and placed in internment camps by the U.S. government. These individuals, many of whom were American citizens, were deemed a threat to national security solely based on their Japanese ancestry. This unjust and discriminatory action was a stain on our nation’s history and a violation of the civil rights of Japanese Americans.

Fast forward to present day, where we are witnessing a similar situation with the actions of ICE. Under the current administration’s strict immigration policies, thousands of individuals, including children, are being detained and separated from their families at the U.S.-Mexico border. These individuals are seeking refuge and a better life in America, yet they are being treated as criminals and a threat to our nation.

Durbin’s comparison of ICE to the internment of Japanese Americans is not meant to diminish the severity of the internment camps, but rather to draw attention to the alarming parallels between the two situations. Both involve the unjust and inhumane treatment of a specific group of people based on their ethnicity or nationality.

It is also important to note that Durbin is not the first to make this comparison. In fact, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has also drawn similarities between the two situations, stating that “the Trump administration’s family separation policy is eerily similar to the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II.”

Furthermore, Durbin’s statement serves as a reminder of the importance of learning from our past mistakes. The internment of Japanese Americans was a dark and shameful moment in American history, and it is crucial that we do not repeat the same mistakes with our current immigration policies.

Some may argue that the comparison is unfair and that ICE is simply enforcing the law. However, it is important to remember that the internment of Japanese Americans was also deemed legal at the time. It was not until decades later that the U.S. government formally apologized and provided reparations to those who were unjustly interned.

In light of Durbin’s statement, it is imperative that we take a closer look at the actions of ICE and the impact it is having on immigrant communities. We must also question the morality and effectiveness of such harsh immigration policies.

As Americans, we pride ourselves on being a nation of immigrants, built on the values of diversity and inclusion. However, the actions of ICE and the current administration are contradicting these very values. We must not turn a blind eye to the injustices being committed in the name of national security.

In conclusion, Senator Dick Durbin’s comparison of ICE to the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II may be controversial, but it serves as a wake-up call for all of us. We must acknowledge the similarities between the two situations and work towards creating a more just and humane immigration system. As Durbin stated, “we must never forget the lessons of history and the harm that can come from unchecked fear and prejudice.” Let us learn from our past mistakes and strive towards a better future for all.