(Photo Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection - Letter to the Editor)

I am responding to a letter published on Jan. 26, that expresses the writer’s concerns about immigration and ICE’s role in American communities. While the writer’s concerns reflect a widely held perspective, I believe it’s essential to address the complexities of immigration and the value immigrants bring to our society.

First, the assertion that those protesting against ICE have questionable motivations overlooks the compassion many feel toward individuals seeking refuge and safety. This same compassion is expressed in Emma Lazarus’s poem as a symbol of hope and shelter for the world’s oppressed, and in The Bible, which teaches us to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31). These protests reflect a commitment to justice and humanitarian principles.

Moreover, the claim that undocumented immigrants have no rights is a complete misunderstanding of our Constitution. While it’s true that certain rights, such as voting, are reserved for citizens, many legal scholars argue that all individuals, regardless of status, are entitled to fundamental human rights. This perspective resonates with the core message of the Bible: “So God created mankind in his own image” (Genesis 1:27). Every person, regardless of their immigration status, carries intrinsic value.

Regarding contributions, many immigrants play invaluable roles in our workforce and economy. They fill essential positions in agriculture, healthcare, and other sectors that keep our communities thriving. Proverbs 14:31 states, “Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.” Many immigrants contribute significantly more in taxes than they utilize in public resources. This demonstrates their commitment to being productive members of society.

Also worth noting are the letter writer’s concerns about crime. While the letter emphasizes the criminal records of some immigrants, they are statistically less likely to commit crimes than native-born citizens. Many arrive in search of safety and opportunity, fleeing violence and oppression in their home countries. As Matthew 25:35 reminds us, “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me in.” By vilifying immigrants, we ignore the challenges they face and the resilience they demonstrate.

Finally, I agree that secure borders are vital; we must find ways to achieve this without endangering human rights. Comprehensive immigration reform was nearly reached in 2024, which could have created pathways to legality for those already here, and ensured security for us while honoring our country’s tradition as a sanctuary for the oppressed. The Bible encourages us in Leviticus 19:34 to “treat the foreigner residing among you as your native-born.”

Please, let us engage in a conversation about immigration that reflects our values as a nation of immigrants. This should be a conversation that embraces empathy, inclusivity, and an understanding of the humanity we all share. When hatred and exclusivity are celebrated, society undergoes division and the fostering of “us versus them” mentalities.

We are all God’s children.

Arthur Kelly

Parkersburg