Last Friday, President Trump signed an executive order temporarily halting immigration from seven Muslim majority countries in the Middle East and Africa.  Immediately after its signing, it was met with fierce opposition and protests, prompting a federal judge to put a temporary stop on the ban. It has been met with absolutely zero support from any democrats in Congress, and only partial support from the Republicans. Opponents have called the order unconstitutional, un-American, and a gross violation of human rights.

Initially, the ban included all immigrants, even those with visas and green cards, but that was quickly stopped by a federal judge the day after. In accordance to the ruling, the Trump administration changed to the details to no longer include those with visas. There are still certain exclusive groups from the seven countries (Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen) that are still allowed, but the majority of people are still not able to come into the U.S.

Currently, all students, workers, and visitors are barred from entry to the United States. Refugees are currently banned as well, with green card holders being reviewed on a more case to case basis. Diplomats and dual citizens are the only groups being allowed entry by the United States.

In total, this ban prevents approximately 218 million people from entering the country. The ban on those coming into the country is only going to last ninety days, but the ban on refugees is going to last an extra thirty, for a total of 120.

There have been many protests against this ban, including at least eight protests at different major airports in the United States. Protesters call this ban a “Muslim ban” and there have been demonstrations in solidarity with Muslims. 

This is leading to an even more controversial start for an already very controversial administration. As of the writing of this article, there are no plans to repeal the executive order and it appears it will stay in effect for the full duration of Trump’s presidency.