LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: Why we must remember World Refugee Day, U.S. Refugee Act

To the Editor: 

World Refugee Day is observed on June 20, and this year it coincides with the 45th anniversary of the Refugee Act — landmark legislation that passed the Senate unanimously in 1980. Back then, both parties agreed that the leader of the free world should welcome freedom-seekers as its own and help them become Americans. 

This resonates with me as a proud resident of Medford, historically the home of heroes of America’s revolution against tyranny, of abolitionists, and former slaves who were refugees from less free states — a city whose character has been shaped by immigrants from throughout the world, many of whom were forced to leave their homes for a chance at a better life.  

It’s deeply painful to me that in this anniversary year, the U.S. Refugee Program has been hobbled, slamming the door on people in desperate circumstances, including thousands who have already been rigorously vetted (as all refugees are) and many targeted specifically for supporting the U.S. 

As residents of a historic city of freedom and refuge, this is an injustice against which we need to speak out, and as federal policies are fought in the courts, we can act locally, supporting resettlement organizations, advocating for inclusive city policies, and being mindful of making every aspect of city life safe, accessible and welcoming to our newest neighbors.  

Jason Rabin, Medford