Bonamici Statement on Refugee Crisis

WASHINGTON, DC [11/18/15] – Today, Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) made the following statement on the refugee crisis:

“Recent terrorist attacks across the globe have raised fears toward refugees and immigrants. We must maintain our focus on keeping our nation safe and secure—refugees go through intensive and lengthy screening—but we cannot allow hateful rhetoric to dictate our nation’s policies. American values do not include leaving the victims of terrorism to wander in hunger, seeking shelter from bullets and bombs.

“In the United States it is our diversity that makes us stronger. With that strength we must summon our collective humanity to provide a place for refugees, many of whom are women and children, fleeing war and terrorism. Oregon has been a welcoming home to many immigrants, and we have elected leaders like former Governor Vic Atiyeh, who was the son of Syrian immigrants. Governor Brown honored Oregon’s values by welcoming those seeking refuge and opening the doors of opportunity to them.

“We must not forget the words inscribed on the Statue of Liberty: ‘Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.’ I will continue to stand against both the hateful words and policies that discriminate against lawful immigrants and refugees seeking peace.”