Civil, compassionate

There is much discussion and controversy over whether to allow Syrian refugees to relocate in the United States. After reading the steps involved in the vetting process at whitehouse.gov, I am convinced that the process is incredibly thorough and individuals and families should be admitted.

The vetting process begins when a refugee reports to the United Nations Refugee Agency in the country where he/she currently is. Here identifying documents are collected and an initial assessment is made. Biometric iris scans are done, and an interview performed. If a refugee passes this stage, the application moves forward. Applicants are then received by the Refugee Support Center where further documents are collected and security checks conducted. The Department of Homeland Security performs an enhanced review of Syrian cases. Fingerprints are screened against databases in the U.S. and other countries. If not already halted, this is the end for cases with any security concerns. Next comes a medical assessment and cultural orientation and finally resettlement locations are determined. Travel is then booked to the U.S. On arrival each person is then screened by U.S. Customs.

Finally the refugee must apply for a green card within one year and is once again put through another security check. The entire process takes between one and two years to complete.

Let us not repeat earlier mistakes made by our country such as when 120,000 Japanese Americans were put in relocation centers, or when 900 Jews were denied entry in 1939. Let us not allow ignorance and bigotry to cloud our decisions. Nearly half of the population of Syria is currently displaced. They want what we want—a safe shelter where they can live and raise their children. Let us all be civil and compassionate and welcome Syrian refugees to our nation. PATRICIA PHILLIPS

Little Rock