Not fault of migrants

Your publication recently printed a letter from Mr. Robert Kittelson of Powhatan, in which Mr. Kittelson asked of Central American immigrants, “Why should we expect people who cannot live with their neighbors in their home country to come here and be good neighbors to us? They are fleeing themselves, basically.”

No. Just no. Immigrants fleeing death, violence, and persecution are not “fleeing themselves.” If my peaceful, law-abiding family was facing murder and torture in my home country from gangs and corrupt officials, I would do everything possible to get my family to safety. As would anyone. As, I’m sure, Mr. Kittelson would.

By Mr. Kittelson’s logic, it is the fleeing immigrants who are at fault— presumably for not getting along with their “neighbors.” The fault doesn’t lie with victims here, sir, especially not victims who are fleeing for their lives.

I refuse to broadly blame asylum-seekers for their situation. War, violence, and death have created refugee crises for centuries. The problem is real—and should be addressed humanely, not dismissed lazily from our safe homes.

Human beings, especially asylum-seekers, should have the right to live freely and without fear. It’s the stated promise of America. Whether we Americans live up to that promise is up to us. GLEN HOOKS North Little Rock