My letter has been sent to two local newspapers for possible publication in support of immigration reform. Here is a sneak peak: Last night while viewing President Barack Obama’s Address to the Nation on the issue of immigration, I witnessed something amazing. I saw and heard a leader doing exactly what we expect of leaders. It was sensible and decisive action, which the American people have been waiting for from an inactive Congress, and provides temporary relief from the threat of deportation that affects an estimated five million undocumented immigrants and their families, with children being the ones who suffer most. I heard more than the voice of our current President, however. I also heard the voices of former Presidents, both Republican and Democrat, who have executed similar relief actions. I heard the voice of Pope Francis calling for a change in attitudes toward immigrants and refugees. I heard the voices of The Sisters of Mercy, guiding with the four tenets of mercy, service, justice and hospitality. I heard the voices of law enforcement officials instructing officers and agents to focus on apprehending and deporting criminals rather than victims. I heard the voices of social workers giving hope to families struggling to make ends meet. I heard the voices of business owners telling employees that they’re glad they can stay and keep working. The voice I heard was that of United States immigration reform as it should be, not the deafening silence that it has been. I teach my children to play in the same sandbox as all other children, regardless of their skin color, ethnicity or the income level of their parents. When a new child walks up to that sandbox, they are welcomed. I believe it’s time for American politics to reflect sandbox logic. In solidarity with The Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, David Zimmerman Benton, PA [email protected]
Posted on: Fri, 21 Nov 2014 21:36:28 +0000
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