The Scoot Inn
Make Good on Promises
RECEIVED Mon., Nov. 23, 2015
Dear Editor,
As I read articles about the Syrian refugee situation and Greg Abbott’s opposition to welcoming them ["No Shelter Here," News, Nov. 20], I cannot help but to think of another issue regarding the United States’ improper handling of refugees. I am referring to the Iraqi and Afghan translators who were promised visas in compensation for their valuable help to the American military. More than 1,000 have been killed since then. Most of them, including their families, are endangered and are unable to secure other jobs since they are constantly targeted in their communities. A very few amount of these applications have resulted in visas for these translators; most of them are stuck in bureaucratic processes and delays which keep these allies in very dangerous situations in the meantime. How is it that more isn’t done for these people who have done so much for Americans? These people have risked their lives for us, and worked alongside U.S. troops, which are their main supporters in facilitating this process and providing them the safety they were promised. I do not mean to take away importance from the Syrian refugee situation, but this matter should not be pushed aside as we have depended on these people in our wartime efforts and our treatment of them has only sent the message that we are not good friends and are not good for our promises. How can we expect help in the future?
As I read articles about the Syrian refugee situation and Greg Abbott’s opposition to welcoming them ["No Shelter Here," News, Nov. 20], I cannot help but to think of another issue regarding the United States’ improper handling of refugees. I am referring to the Iraqi and Afghan translators who were promised visas in compensation for their valuable help to the American military. More than 1,000 have been killed since then. Most of them, including their families, are endangered and are unable to secure other jobs since they are constantly targeted in their communities. A very few amount of these applications have resulted in visas for these translators; most of them are stuck in bureaucratic processes and delays which keep these allies in very dangerous situations in the meantime. How is it that more isn’t done for these people who have done so much for Americans? These people have risked their lives for us, and worked alongside U.S. troops, which are their main supporters in facilitating this process and providing them the safety they were promised. I do not mean to take away importance from the Syrian refugee situation, but this matter should not be pushed aside as we have depended on these people in our wartime efforts and our treatment of them has only sent the message that we are not good friends and are not good for our promises. How can we expect help in the future?
Maria F. Gonzalez