Hawaii’s attorney general on Thursday joined a multi-state coalition led by California and Massachusetts in opposing the Trump administration’s attempt to limit immigrant access to the asylum process.

According to the AG’s office, under the rule individuals entering the United States at the southern border “except in limited circumstances, are no longer able to seek asylum unless they applied for and were denied protection in at least one country they transited through prior to their arrival.”

The coalition urges the U.S. departments of Justice and Homeland Security to rescind the policy.

Attorney General Clare Connors announces suspension of Keith Kaneshiro.
Hawaii Attorney General Clare Connors. Cory Lum/Civil Beat

“We stand with our fellow states in opposing yet another unlawful rule,” said AG Clare Connors. “This rule was issued without following proper procedures. It also discriminates and harms vulnerable individuals.”

A press release states that the asylum protections “were built on the principles of the 1951 Refugee Convention, which sought to mitigate some of the horrors visited upon refugees during and after World War II.”

The Trump administration has taken many steps to limit migration from Latin America to the U.S., arguing that immigration it is bringing unwanted groups into the country.

Opponents call the policy discriminatory, harmful and anti-American.

Help power essential news and information

As a local newsroom, Civil Beat has a unique public service role in times of need. Your support ensures that we can pivot when emergencies arise and get vital information out to everyone, from all communities.

Support timely and accurate breaking news stories as well as impactful coverage across the state. Donate today.

About the Author