Remember — It Could Be Us.

Around 150 Sitkans joined other people in other cities around the US in a “Families Belong Together” march.  To be precise Suzi and I counted 147 people march past us while I was taking pictures.  We met several more at the Centennial building and some people joined in after the march was over for speeches and cookies.

I anticipate that there will be comments and questions about this post.  “Why did you participate?  What do you want?”” I participated because I have worked with refugees and asylum seekers in Europe, the Middle East, East Africa and the Caucasus.  They are from different cultures and are of different races but they all face something in common.  Their lives were disrupted by violence of some sort and they need a safe place where they can work to feed, clothe and house their families.  I participated because there, for the grace of God, go I.

I joined the march because I am tired of these decent people being called names, vilified, and made criminals for wanting the most basic human needs and human rights.  I am tired of seeing them used as pawns by leaders who sow fear to rule rather than appeal to our better nature.  Asylum seekers and refugees need to know that there are people in this country who reject fear and who welcome them and wish them well.

3 thoughts on “Remember — It Could Be Us.

  1. I agree with you 100 percent. I usually avoid making controversial statements on Facebook, but at the end of the day I have to be able to face myself in the mirror. Thank Rich.

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