Florida, Texas, Michigan, Maine and 27 other states have something in common- they don’t want any Syrian refugees within their borders.

31 states have declared that they do not wish to accept Syrian refugees, and of the 31 states concerned, 30 have a Republican governor.

Comparisons have been drawn between the Syrian refugee crisis and the crisis of the German Jews before World War II. Among the many Jews denied refuge in the United States were Anne Frank and her family.

Many Americans are pointing to this tragic denial and asking that we don’t make the same mistake again.

Although the final decision of acceptance or rejection falls upon the national government, the states play a role in expediting the process, and their support or dissent has a large impact on the decision the national government will eventually make.

The refugees are running out of European countries to go to due to an influx of Syrians that the smaller countries are incapable of handling. Because of that, they are beginning to look to the U.S.

America’s association with freedom dates back to the very first European settlers, escaping various negative conditions in their home countries.

The U.S. was founded off of the principles of freedom. It has long since been considered a place of refuge for people who are seeking a better life.
Since the civil war began in 2011, 4.2 million Syrians have been displaced. The U.S. has accepted a paltry 2,290.

The Obama Administration hopes to raise that number, stating that 10,000 Syrians will be allowed in early next year.

In light of the upcoming presidential election, however, a continual acceptance of Syrians at that rate cannot be assured.

Leaders in opposition of accepting the refugees have varying opinions on the matter.

While some suggest that the refugees be banned altogether, others ask that refugees be particularly inspected as possible security threats.

The announcements started after it came to light that at least one of the suspects in the terrorist attacks on Paris arrived under the guise of a refugee.

67 percent of the refugees are children younger than 12 and women. They are seeking a safe home, not to attack the United States.

Sure, the refugees should be examined as any immigrant would because terrorism is a serious matter, but to bar them from the country entirely is ridiculous.

Annandale will be one of the first stops for the new immigrants. Chances are, a flood of love and support will follow. One can only hope that the rest of the country is as accepting as Annandale will be.