Label "alien" in the dictionary, when used to describe an immigrant, as a derogatory term.
Label "alien" in the dictionary, when used to describe an immigrant, as a derogatory term.
The Issue
In recent years, millions of immigrants around the world, especially in the USA, have faced discrimination merely based on their country of origin. These individuals, who often endure challenging journeys to seek better lives, are frequently labeled as "aliens" by various institutions and society at large. The term "alien," when used to refer to immigrants, carries a derogatory connotation that dehumanizes those seeking refuge or a new start in foreign lands.
The dictionary is not just a passive record of language but a powerful tool that reflects and shapes societal attitudes. Words matter, and how we define them can perpetuate prejudices or promote understanding and respect. Retaining a demeaning definition of "alien" for immigrants fuels negative stereotypes and contributes to xenophobia and systemic bias, embedding these harms deeper into the collective consciousness.
When immigrants are labeled as "aliens," they are unjustly positioned as outsiders, not just to a new country, but also excluded from social embrace and acceptance. It builds unnecessary barriers between communities and perpetuates a narrative of division rather than integration and collective humanity.
Even as legal categorizations exist, it is crucial that our language evolves to encourage inclusivity and empathy. We call upon publishers of leading dictionaries across the English-speaking world — such as Merriam-Webster, Oxford, and others — to change the definition of "alien" to remove any derogatory implications when referring to immigrants.
By taking this action, dictionaries would help society transition towards embracing diversity, acknowledging the dignity of all individuals regardless of their birthplace, and committing to a more inclusive future. It is time to redefine what it means to be an "alien" in a manner that aligns with modern values of respect, diversity, and acceptance.
Sign this petition to urge dictionary publishers to take an essential step towards language that fosters unity over division, and understanding over prejudice. Make your voice heard and stand with millions of immigrants around the world who deserve respect and dignity in every aspect of their lives.
The dictionary is not just a passive record of language but a powerful tool that reflects and shapes societal attitudes. Words matter, and how we define them can perpetuate prejudices or promote understanding and respect. Retaining a demeaning definition of "alien" for immigrants fuels negative stereotypes and contributes to xenophobia and systemic bias, embedding these harms deeper into the collective consciousness.
When immigrants are labeled as "aliens," they are unjustly positioned as outsiders, not just to a new country, but also excluded from social embrace and acceptance. It builds unnecessary barriers between communities and perpetuates a narrative of division rather than integration and collective humanity.
Even as legal categorizations exist, it is crucial that our language evolves to encourage inclusivity and empathy. We call upon publishers of leading dictionaries across the English-speaking world — such as Merriam-Webster, Oxford, and others — to change the definition of "alien" to remove any derogatory implications when referring to immigrants.
By taking this action, dictionaries would help society transition towards embracing diversity, acknowledging the dignity of all individuals regardless of their birthplace, and committing to a more inclusive future. It is time to redefine what it means to be an "alien" in a manner that aligns with modern values of respect, diversity, and acceptance.
Sign this petition to urge dictionary publishers to take an essential step towards language that fosters unity over division, and understanding over prejudice. Make your voice heard and stand with millions of immigrants around the world who deserve respect and dignity in every aspect of their lives.
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The Issue
In recent years, millions of immigrants around the world, especially in the USA, have faced discrimination merely based on their country of origin. These individuals, who often endure challenging journeys to seek better lives, are frequently labeled as "aliens" by various institutions and society at large. The term "alien," when used to refer to immigrants, carries a derogatory connotation that dehumanizes those seeking refuge or a new start in foreign lands.
The dictionary is not just a passive record of language but a powerful tool that reflects and shapes societal attitudes. Words matter, and how we define them can perpetuate prejudices or promote understanding and respect. Retaining a demeaning definition of "alien" for immigrants fuels negative stereotypes and contributes to xenophobia and systemic bias, embedding these harms deeper into the collective consciousness.
When immigrants are labeled as "aliens," they are unjustly positioned as outsiders, not just to a new country, but also excluded from social embrace and acceptance. It builds unnecessary barriers between communities and perpetuates a narrative of division rather than integration and collective humanity.
Even as legal categorizations exist, it is crucial that our language evolves to encourage inclusivity and empathy. We call upon publishers of leading dictionaries across the English-speaking world — such as Merriam-Webster, Oxford, and others — to change the definition of "alien" to remove any derogatory implications when referring to immigrants.
By taking this action, dictionaries would help society transition towards embracing diversity, acknowledging the dignity of all individuals regardless of their birthplace, and committing to a more inclusive future. It is time to redefine what it means to be an "alien" in a manner that aligns with modern values of respect, diversity, and acceptance.
Sign this petition to urge dictionary publishers to take an essential step towards language that fosters unity over division, and understanding over prejudice. Make your voice heard and stand with millions of immigrants around the world who deserve respect and dignity in every aspect of their lives.
The dictionary is not just a passive record of language but a powerful tool that reflects and shapes societal attitudes. Words matter, and how we define them can perpetuate prejudices or promote understanding and respect. Retaining a demeaning definition of "alien" for immigrants fuels negative stereotypes and contributes to xenophobia and systemic bias, embedding these harms deeper into the collective consciousness.
When immigrants are labeled as "aliens," they are unjustly positioned as outsiders, not just to a new country, but also excluded from social embrace and acceptance. It builds unnecessary barriers between communities and perpetuates a narrative of division rather than integration and collective humanity.
Even as legal categorizations exist, it is crucial that our language evolves to encourage inclusivity and empathy. We call upon publishers of leading dictionaries across the English-speaking world — such as Merriam-Webster, Oxford, and others — to change the definition of "alien" to remove any derogatory implications when referring to immigrants.
By taking this action, dictionaries would help society transition towards embracing diversity, acknowledging the dignity of all individuals regardless of their birthplace, and committing to a more inclusive future. It is time to redefine what it means to be an "alien" in a manner that aligns with modern values of respect, diversity, and acceptance.
Sign this petition to urge dictionary publishers to take an essential step towards language that fosters unity over division, and understanding over prejudice. Make your voice heard and stand with millions of immigrants around the world who deserve respect and dignity in every aspect of their lives.
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Petition created on February 7, 2026