ICE Resumes Use of 'Alien', Drops 'Noncitizen'

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has announced a return to using the term 'alien' in all communications, reversing Biden-era policies that favored more inclusive language, according to a memo from Acting ICE Director Caleb Vitello. This decision is part of a broader shift aligning with Trump’s hardline immigration stance, which emphasizes statutory language over politically correct terms. The memo also eliminates the term 'noncitizen,' replacing it with 'alienage,' and reflects a reversion to terminology used during Trump's previous administration. Immigration advocates have criticized the term 'alien' as offensive, while some conservatives defend it citing its legal basis in the Immigration and Nationality Act. The changes come as Trump signals a renewed focus on immigration enforcement, including reinstating controversial policies such as 'Remain in Mexico.' Critics and supporters alike are weighing in on the implications of this language shift for immigration policy and public discourse.