Tech & Rights

#NoMuslimBan: The World Takes a Stand Against President Trump...and Succeeds!

A #NoMuslimBan sit-in was recently in front of the US Embassy in Rome, one of the many protests held in Italy and around the world to counter the latest actions of President Trump.

by Italian Coalition for Civil Liberties and Rights
The #NoMuslimBan sit-in was held on February 2 by CILD along with Associazione Antigone, Amnesty Italy and many others organizations.

Why the protest?

In essence, civil societies gathered globally to protest against the latest executive order of Trump to bar entrance into the US for seven countries with predominantly Muslim populations: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

On a practical note, such a decision had catastrophic effects for citizens from all countries and nationalities, including those who legally reside in the United States but who were unable to return home should they want to return from "prohibited" countries.

Many others were trapped in airports and immigration centers for days on end, where uncertainty as to their future even baffled officers working at the immigration desks.

Trump is tarnishing America's image

However, fundamentally the reason why Trump’s latest initiative was targeted was because it was seen as unconstitutional, undemocratic and immoral. It plainly targeted religious and racial groups, making it an act of vast racism, discrimination and oppression.

The US has been viewed for many years as a country of great influence and a beacon of modern democracy. It stood as an example for the "Western World" to not relive the horrors of the past and respect the progress made by countless socialists like those in the Civil Rights Movement.

The actions of Trump have not only tarnished America's image, but could end up being viewed as the beginning of a period during which some of the horrors of recent history repeat.

In Italy, similar constitutional values govern us. We also believe that everyone must be treated equally and those who seek asylum should be granted it. It is for this reason that CILD particularly supported protests against Trump's travel ban, as we felt obligated as a civil society to support fellow civil societies live by their fundamental values.

Keep up the fight for civil liberties

Last week, the US Federal Court temporarily blocked Trump's travel ban in order to hear a case brought by Washington state Attorney General Robert Ferguson. The ruling of the federal court upheld the fundamental principles of American Constitution.

As stated by Ferguson, the court demonstrated that "No one is above the law — not even the President."

On Thursday, February 9, a three-judge panel on United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit upheld the decision that the ban could not be enforced until its legality was decided. That ruling was unanimous, and included one judge appointed by Republican George W. Bush.

Although providing only temporary relief, there now remains hope that the travel ban will be permanently barred.

Thanks must really go to those who protested worldwide to those who fought and continue to fight for the basic human rights, which govern civil societies worldwide. It is organizations and individuals who fight against discrimination, racism and oppression who offer hope to the future of the world when those who govern us fail to do so.

We must continue to fight for our rights as civil societies all across the world, or else we risk losing our rights and freedoms under the heavy hands of governments that care little for the values of their people.

All pictures taken by CILD staff at the sit-in in front of the US Embassy.

Donate to liberties

Your contribution matters

As a watchdog organisation, Liberties reminds politicians that respect for human rights is non-negotiable. We're determined to keep championing your civil liberties, will you stand with us? Every donation, big or small, counts.

We’re grateful to all our supporters

Your contributions help us in the following ways

► Liberties remains independent
► It provides a stable income, enabling us to plan long-term
► We decide our mission, so we can focus on the causes that matter
► It makes us stronger and more impactful

Your contribution matters

As a watchdog organisation, Liberties reminds politicians that respect for human rights is non-negotiable. We're determined to keep championing your civil liberties, will you stand with us? Every donation, big or small, counts.

Subscribe to stay in

the loop

Why should I?

You will get the latest reports before everyone else!

You can follow what we are doing for your right!

You will know about our achivements!

Show me a sample!