Wants aid local, not for refugees

Gov. Inslee, with his decision to accept Syrians in refugee status, has provoked a serious controversy.

I believe that it is consistent with a strange and irrational policy of taking on more problems and somehow avoid the existing ones that are a shameful badge of dishonor that is a daily reminder in our own community. I refer to the homeless numbers of mostly men that are seen outside the mission waiting for shelter and meals every day.

Anyone who drives in Bellingham will observe beggars at intersections, malls and other locations where there is a large number of passersby or cars. Problems of mental health, drug addiction or even those who have dropped off the edge of a stable employment, family support or physical disability are the wounds of our present society yet we take on more burdens outside our borders all the time.

I suggest to those that are sympathetic to Gov. Inslee on this issue, that they prove their support by personally, not by the government, to take on the total financial support of this decision, take the refugees into their own homes, pay for their shelter, medical care, education etc. Perhaps in my fanciful dreams there will be a political reformation and its platform will be “Put your money/responsibility where your mouth is.” Gov. Inslee this is you opportunity to do so.

This story was originally published November 1, 2015 at 4:01 PM with the headline "Wants aid local, not for refugees."