An effort is underway in the Virginia General Assembly to strike the term “alien” from the state code to describe noncitizens.
“The change might seem symbolic, but it’s an important step to restoring humanity after years of demonization,” Democratic Virginia Del. Alfonso Lopez said. “Simply put, the term is outdated, reflecting prejudices that most Virginians do not hold today.”
Lopez, who called the term antiquated, made a social media video explaining the new legislation.
“Another bill I’m working on is HB 962, regarding the term ‘illegal immigrant‘ in the Virginia code. The term ‘alien’ when referred to immigrants whether documented or undocumented is dehumanizing at face value,” he said.
The Arlington Democrat added, “The term has no place in our daily vocabulary and certainly does not have a place in the Virginia code.”
Here is Del. Alfonso López speaking about two of his
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