Texas AAPI Communities Mobilize Against Discriminatory Alien Land Bills
In a significant act of solidarity, various Asian Pacific American communities across Texas are banding together with other ethnic groups to oppose Senate Bill 17 (SB 17) and House Bill 17 (HB 17). These proposed legislations aim to impose restrictions on real estate ownership for specific foreign nationals, framed under the pretext of national security. This initiative to encourage discrimination against certain groups has raised serious concerns, prompting community leaders to take action.
On March 29 and 30, 2025, three major protest rallies are set to take place in Houston, Dallas, and Austin. The events aim to raise awareness about the potential implications of these bills and to call for fair and equitable treatment for all residents, regardless of their country of origin. These voices aren't just limited to local residents; they include advocates from various Texas and national organizations, reflecting a united front against any form of discrimination.
A coalition of Texas and national AAPI organizations remarked in a letter targeting state legislators that these bills resurrect outdated and unjust laws. They emphasized that the alien land laws, previously enacted, had been abolished in 1965 through a bipartisan agreement aimed at ensuring equality and justice. This historical context reinforces their argument that discrimination based on nationality has no place in today’s legislation.
The letter articulately stresses,
“These bills are unconstitutional and discriminatory, as they target individuals based on their nation of origin. Individuals should not be penalized or denied their rights solely due to their birthplace.”
This strong statement serves as a reminder and warning to legislators not to regress into past injustices that have caused incredible harm to numerous communities.
Texas state representative Gene Wu, who chairs the Texas House Democratic Caucus, critiques the bill as a step back in time in terms of civil rights. He argues that:
“The Texas Senate listened to our community’s repeated pleas for fairness and respect, and instead, they gave us more discrimination by passing SB 17, which brings us unnervingly close to the dark chapter of forced internment of Asian Americans from 80 years ago.”
As a result, Wu urges the community to mobilize against this growing tide of discrimination, educating Texas legislators about the importance of fairness and respect for all citizens.
In advance of these rallies, organizations like the Texas Multicultural Advocacy Coalition and United Chinese Americans (UCA) are proactively engaging the public through various channels. Ads are appearing in prominent publications such as the Houston Chronicle and the Austin American-Statesman, among others, to amplify the community's message and drive support for the events.
Protest Rally Details
Austin Rally
- - Date & Time: March 29, 2025, at 11:00 AM CST
- - Venue: Texas Capitol Grounds, East Steps, Austin, TX
- - Media Contact: Hugh Li | +1 (302) 420-5986 | hughli@example.com
Dallas Rally
- - Date & Time: March 30, 2025, at 2:00 PM CST
- - Venue: zTao Marketplace, Plano, TX
- - Media Contact: Janet Liu | +1 (469) 855-1015 | janetliu@example.com
Houston Rally
- - Date & Time: March 30, 2025, at 2:00 PM CST
- - Venue: 9015 Bellaire Blvd @ Ranchester, Houston, TX
- - Media Contacts: Gary Nakamura | 713-705-0999 | garynakamura@example.com
June Xu | +1 (832) 512-6112 |
junexu@example.com
By joining forces and taking action, the Texas AAPI communities aim to not only challenge these discriminatory bills but also to advocate for a more inclusive and just society. With a rich history of overcoming adversity, this mobilization reflects the resilience and determination of the community to protect their rights and ensure that no further injustices occur. The upcoming rallies stand as a beacon of hope, representing unity, respect, and the fundamental principles of democracy.