Why do Nadira, Aisha, and Taslima need to lead a double life?

The main theme of "Ask Me No Questions" is the trials that illegal immigrants face, especially following the terrorist attacks on 9/11/2001. Before 9/11, these illegal immigrants are invisible to Americans, but they are all treated like dangerous terrorists after the attack. All Muslim men over the age of eighteen are required to register, and many who register are imprisoned or deported. The novel begins with the Hossain family travelling to Canada to apply for asylum because of the tightening restrictions on immigrants following 9/11. Unfortunately, they are denied asylum due to the recent influx of immigrants. Upon their return to America, Abba is arrested for possessing an expired visa. Just when his family expects him to be released, Abba's detainment is prolonged because he is suspected of being involved with an illegal organization. Many characters must pretend they are legal citizens yet always have to be on alert for getting found out.