The Associated Press Scraps Term: ‘Illegal Immigrants’
The Associated Press issued a style ruling this week that symbolizes much in the debate over immigration.
It dropped the term “illegal immigrant.”
Here’s the new entry in the style guide:
“Illegal immigration – Entering or residing in a country in violation of civil or criminal law. Except in direct quotes essential to the story, use illegal only to refer to an action, not a person: illegal immigration, but not illegal immigrant. Acceptable variations include living in or entering a country illegally or without legal permission.”
Advocates like Monica Novoa have been pushing for this change for years.
“It’s legally inaccurate, dehumanizing and racially charged,” says Novoa.
At The World, we believe strongly that human-centered journalism is at the heart of an informed public and a strong democracy. We see democracy and journalism as two sides of the same coin. If you care about one, it is imperative to care about the other.
Every day, our nonprofit newsroom seeks to inform and empower listeners and hold the powerful accountable. Neither would be possible without the support of listeners like you. If you believe in our work, will you give today? We need your help now more than ever!