The Associated Press Stylebook which is followed by many news organizations world wide says it will no longer use the word “illegal” to describe a person.
“The stylebook no longer sanctions the term “illegal immigrant” or the use of “illegal” to describe a person. Instead, it tells users that “illegal” should describe only an action, such as living in or immigrating to a country illegally.” wrote AP Senior Vice President and Executive Editor Kathleen Carroll.
AP acknowledged the change may be hard for some writers and some may disagree with the decision.
“Change is a part of AP Style because the English language is constantly evolving, enriched by new words, phrases and uses. Our goal always is to use the most precise and accurate words so that the meaning is clear to any reader anywhere.”
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