To The Reader’s Forum:

The news media has stories of ICE raids sending “illegals” and criminals out of the country to jails with horrific conditions. Our government officials loudly hail these deportations. These arrests and deportations happen without due process to ensure that they are actually guilty of the heinous crimes of which they are accused. While I agree that we should deport proven dangerous criminals, I maintain that we must also welcome immigrants who are here legally. Where is the equally loud, enthusiastic endorsement of those who left injustices in their home country to become contributing members of society here in Jamestown, NY??

Before you dismiss me as just a bleeding heart liberal, consider the advantages of welcoming refugees and immigrants to Chautauqua County. The Post Journal ran a news article “Officials Note Challenges To Workforce With Population Loss” on March 29 and an editorial “Population Loss Is A Riddle We Struggle To Solve” on April 5. Both lament the economic woes of population loss. As I said, while I do think that dangerous criminals who have been proven to be so should be deported, I also think we need to welcome those who are here legally as welcome additions to our population. There are many ways that newcomers add to our local economy: the addition of students to our schools, money they spend in our stores, the taxes they pay, and the jobs finally filled with eager employees. The city of Buffalo credits its economic resurgence to the many immigrant newcomers in recent years.

Yes, they are different in their customs, dress, and language, but should that bar them from joining our community? Jamestown has been through this before in the Italians versus Swedes “war”. Did we not learn that differences enrich our community? All the folks at Yassou are Greek for the weekend, yelling “OPA!” and savoring Souvlaki and Baklava! Everyone attending the Italian festival loves the dancing and the homemade pasta, meatballs, and cookies! We celebrate the Swedes with an Abba tribute band, Dala horses and korv! Imagine adding even more spice to our community as we welcome Hondurans, Syrians and Congolese!

Welcome our New Neighbors! Be glad they are here. It’s one answer to the population loss in our community. They are adding to our economy while enriching our community culture.

Marie Vos

Jamestown