The following statement can be attributed to Evan Engstrom, Engine Executive Director, in response to President Donald Trump’s executive order entitled "Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry Into the United States”:
“The startup community is deeply troubled by the Administration’s decision to limit the movement of immigrants—including lawful visa holders—into the U.S. on the basis of religion and country of origin—a move that came with no forewarning and has engendered uncertainty for many people, including employees at America’s startups. The executive order is both morally and economically misguided, and sets a dangerous precedent that signals to the rest of the world that America is no longer open for innovation.
“The global preeminence of the U.S. technology sector has been driven in a large part by immigrants, and the startup economy is built on inclusivity and meritocracy. Engine has long advocated for reforms to our immigration system that will ensure that the brightest and best from around the world are able to build and contribute to companies in America. However, the executive order signed on Friday will only chill innovation and lower the standing of the U.S. in the world community.
“While we recognize the President has an obligation to promote our national security, this executive order does no such thing, trading on fear rather than sound policy judgment. We will continue to advocate for policies that respect the values and institutions on which our democracy was built and for the rights of the many immigrants that have made the U.S. startup community what it is today.”
