Rep. Thomas Speaks at Tuesday's Rally Against Problematic Anti-Immigrant Bills
COLUMBUS - State Rep. Cecil Thomas (D- Cincinnati) today attended Rally Against House Bill (HB) 1 and Senate Bill (SB) 88: Defend Our Rights.
“House Bill 1, along with its companion Senate Bill 88, are not just misguided—they are discriminatory, hypocritical, and unconstitutional. These bills attempt to paint immigrants as threats to our safety, when in truth, they are pillars of our communities,” said Rep. Thomas. “We need you, the people, to continue speaking out. To raise your voices against injustice. To remind lawmakers that their power comes from the people—and that it can be taken away by the people.”
Why HB1 and SB88 Are Dangerous to Civil Liberties, Property Rights, and Ohio’s Economy:
1. Violation of Due Process and Constitutional Rights
HB 1 and SB 88 would strip individuals and businesses of the right to own property based solely on perceived ties to a "foreign adversary"—without any evidence of wrongdoing, individualized assessment, or legal recourse. This approach violates due process protections guaranteed by the 5th and 14th Amendments of the U.S. Constitution, as well as the Ohio Constitution, by allowing the government to deny fundamental property rights without fair procedure or cause.
2. Discrimination Based on National Origin
The bills rely on overly broad classifications tied to national origin rather than any actual threat or behavior. By targeting individuals and entities simply because of their ties—real or perceived—to countries listed as “foreign adversaries,” the bills risk codifying racial and ethnic discrimination into Ohio law. This violates federal protections under the Fair Housing Act of 1968 and equal protection clauses, which prohibit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, or national origin.
3. Harm to Ohio’s Economy and Communities
Immigrants and immigrant-owned businesses are essential contributors to Ohio’s economy, workforce, and communities. These bills would send a chilling message that Ohio is not open to global talent or investment. Driving out immigrants and immigrant businesses would weaken local economies, reduce job creation, and damage Ohio’s reputation as a welcoming and diverse state. Entire communities could suffer from reduced property values, abandoned investments, and diminished economic activity.
EDITOR’S NOTE: A picture of Rep. Thomas at the rally is attached to this press release. Courtesy: Ohio House Democrats.
For more information on HB 1/SB 88, please visit here.