We regret that Governor Bruce Rauner, in the wake of the horrible terrorist attacks in Paris, joined the backlash against Syrian refugees. These refugees – fleeing the horror and violence of extremists in Syria – should not be victims anew because of the actions of a few individuals in Paris.
Additionally, refugee admission long has been a federal matter, reflecting our values as a nation, under terms defined by the U.S. Department of State. States have never been given veto power in this area, and should not be afforded one now, especially a discriminatory veto aimed at individuals because of their nationality.
We urge Governor Rauner to re-think this misguided policy and affirm the need to welcome Syrian refugees who are fleeing the brutality of ISIS.
