Internment Camps for Japanese Americans Linked to 1798 Law Trump Used for Deportations

President Donald Trump has revived the rarely used Alien Enemies Act of 1798, a statute invoked infrequently since World War II, to justify the rapid deportation of Venezuelan gang members. This act notably facilitated the internment of Japanese Americans during the Second World War, leading to the removal of over 100,000 individuals from their homes.

In Arizona, two internment camps, Gila River and Poston, became temporary settlements for thousands, reaching populations of 13,000 and 18,000, respectively. Trump’s application of this law has stirred profound memories and sparked controversy, particularly as he described an “invasion” linked to the Tren de Aragua criminal organization. This declaration provided a questionable legal framework for denying hearings to 238 migrants recently deported to El Salvador.

Political analysts, including Stuart Streichler of the University of Washington, critique Trump’s interpretation of the law. Historically, the Alien Enemies Act was solely utilized during significant conflicts, such as the War of 1812 and both World Wars, to address concerns over foreign sympathizers amidst rising tensions. The statute, originally signed by John Adams during a fraught period with France, set a precedent for controlling immigrants during war periods.

Franklin D. Roosevelt invoked this law shortly after the Pearl Harbor attack, facilitating the forced dispersion of Japanese Americans under the guise of national security. Living conditions in camps like Poston were harsh, leading to considerable suffering. Poet Brandon Shimoda, whose grandfather was imprisoned there, articulated the unsettling irony of having two of Arizona’s largest cities be internment camps during that era.

Marlene Shigekawa, born in the Poston camp and an advocate for preserving its legacy, expressed deep concern regarding Trump’s reference to the Alien Enemies Act. “It’s very unsettling for the Japanese American community,” she noted, revealing that many have yet to fully come to terms with their historical trauma. Shigekawa leads the Poston Community Alliance and strives to educate the public about this dark chapter in American history.

The Alien Enemies Act permits activation solely during declared wars or invasions, a stipulation that raises questions about Trump’s justification. His administration argues that the Tren de Aragua, accused of terrorism, poses a significant threat, claiming its members have infiltrated the U.S. However, critics, including the American Civil Liberties Union, have contested this interpretation in court.

Experts like Streichler point out that Trump already wields substantial power over immigration laws without needing to resort to such measures. He cautions against the ramifications of using sweeping authority, referencing historical lessons learned from internment camps. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan issued an official apology and compensation to surviving detainees for these past injustices, prompting reflection on civil liberties when similar laws are invoked.