They questioned the patriotism of the Islands large number of aliens. The curse of McCarthyism also slowed Hawaiis progress. Statehood opponents saw in the collective efforts of Hawaiis laboring community the threat of Communist influence in the Islands. Hawaiis supporters answered both charges. In 1935 the Islands alien population was no larger than that of Boston and New York. But unlike Bostons Irish or Italians. the majority of Hawaiis aliens had no recourse. National immigration laws blatantly discriminated against them. It specifically prohibited the naturalization of firstgeneration Japanese immigrants. During World War II. Hawaiis Asian population answered the charge of disloyalty with their blood.
Identified stereotypes
Questioning the patriotism of Asian aliens in Hawaii and implying they are disloyal.