Denis DuBay: Act like ‘home of the brave’

J. Peder Zane’s Dec. 2 column “For N.C., the right response” made the best arguments for objecting to Gov. Pat McCrory’s call to slow the admission of Syrian refugees. He reported that 784,000 refugees have been admitted since Sept. 11, 2001. That’s about 55,000 per year. Why object to adding 10,000 Syrians to a two- to three-year, well-vetted process that since 9/11 has resulted in exactly three refugees convicted of terrorism related charges? It’s far riskier driving to work.

I am saddened by the fear-filled responses of many Americans and many of our leaders to the unavoidable risks inherent in helping others. We live in a country with a proud legacy of liberty, compassion and acceptance. We honor and confirm that reputation when we extend a hand and welcome those in need to our shores.

Yes, I am fearful that there’s a chance a terrorist might take advantage of our compassion to attack us. But I am more concerned that if we give in to fear we will lose our greatness as a nation. We have the resources to safely admit and care for many refugees fleeing terror, and as our National Anthem celebrates, we are “the home of the brave.” Let’s act like it.

This story was originally published December 3, 2015 at 5:57 PM with the headline "Denis DuBay: Act like ‘home of the brave’."