WEST BRATTLEBORO — Thanks to the editors at The Commons for helping me share my story.
We are amid the biggest refugee crisis the world has seen. We need to keep the momentum going to help all refugees fleeing conflict in Northern Africa and Syria.
I am an advocate for change, immediate action, on a small scale. Time is of the essence. The colder season is beginning in many parts of the world. People need food and shelter, and love - they clearly need help.
Climate change is one of the root causes of unrest and migration; with arid conditions threatening farming and safety, people lack the foundation for trust and cannot grow food for sustenance. Communities crumble, and greed and divisiveness prevail.
The United Nations reports that 19 countries are donating $1.8 billion to the top U.N. aid organizations to help alleviate the suffering of migrants and refugees in camps near Mideast areas of turmoil. The generosity of Germany is leading the way.
It is my hope that the American people will not remain silent, or worse, paranoid and selfish like our Republican-led Congress, and open our doors and speed up the 18-24 months usually reserved for processing. The 10,000 refugees authorized by the president is a start, but we must do more.
In my research, it looks like the best place to send donations is directly to Doctors Without Borders. One of their hospitals in Afghanistan was hit by a U.S.-led air strike in the city of Kunduz on Oct. 3. President Obama has given a rare U.S. apology for an air strike gone terribly wrong. More than 20 doctors and patients were killed in the attack. This organization needs our support.
For local readers who are interested in helping refugees, the Vermont Refugee Resettlement Program operates as a local field office of the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants.
The VRRP serves as the only resettlement program in the state of Vermont. Since its establishment in 1980, VRRP has been bringing hope and opportunity to the lives of refugees and immigrants by defending human rights, promoting self-sufficiency, and forging community partnerships.
VRRP provides refugees with their first home in the United States and acculturation services. VRRP's award-winning volunteer program offers crucial community connections to newly arrived refugees.In addition, VRRP's Interpreting and Translating Services (VITS) provides the region with professional services in more than 25 languages. Through a wide range of direct and collaborative programs, VRRP helps refugees to successfully adapt to life in the United States.
Thanks again for helping and publishing my essay.