Letters: SC should welcome Syrian refugees

Last year our governor stated that Syrian refugees would not be welcome in South Carolina. I, and I’m sure many other South Carolinians, do not agree with her ungracious statement. I’m wondering if others would like to stand with my congregation to tell the world that we do welcome these victims of terrorism.

The Social Action Committee of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Columbia recently called on Gov. Nikki Haley and the Legislature to act with love and courage to welcome Syrian refugees for resettlement in South Carolina. These families fled their homes to escape the terror of the Bashar al Assad regime and ISIL. Even after extensive screening of 18 months to two years, they will face more persecution and suffering if South Carolina turns its back on them and their plight. This is unconscionable, immoral and un-American. Immigrants built this country and continue to add incredible richness and diversity to the American tapestry.

We must not face terrorism with fear; love is the only thing that can conquer hate. We need our elected officials to lead on the side of love for refugees.

This story was originally published January 21, 2016 at 1:48 PM.