Accepting refugees into our communities is an American legacy that we all can be proud of. Many of our neighbors who have fled the dangers of war, poverty, and injustice know even better the reasons why it is imperative that we continue to accept families and individuals from all around the world, particularly from war-ravaged Syria.
The hateful rhetoric inspired by fear and xenophobia permeates our communities and further stigmatizes our Muslim and foreign born friends and relatives. We will not stand idly by while leaders like Paul LePage fuel hostility and bitterness within our neighborhoods solely for political gain.
That is why we will stand in solidarity with refugees on December 6th in Monument Square at 6PM, to show Maine and the country that people seeking refuge have allies and friends awaiting them with open arms here in Portland and across the state.