In 1956, as a newly naturalized US citizen born in Germany, I was welcomed into this nation of immigrants. In public schools I learned of the special place this wonderful country occupies in the hearts of freedom loving people around the world. The notion that we should now close the doors behind us to those in desperate need is anathema to the principles that make us proud to be Americans.
People fleeing the war in Syria do not choose to leave their homes, but when their homes are destroyed what choice do they have? They do not wish to cross an ocean in order to do us harm. Those wishing to harm us have many other options other than becoming refugees. In fact, it is our military and their proxies that have crossed the ocean in order to force “regime change” on them with the consequence of exacerbating an already complicated civil war. It is therefore our responsibility to help those whose lives have been disrupted by the actions of this administration. Clearly quotas need to be established and immigration officials need to carefully vet any and all asylum seekers.
Visitors to this country often remark how friendly Americans are. I hope we can maintain the tradition of open-heartedness that welcomed me into this country. I for one would be happy and proud to sponsor a refugee family.
Jeff Hahn
Hamilton