They unite us as a nation; they make us
stronger. That is the message we should be embracing--one of inclusion,
not one of exclusion and division. Federal District Court Judge
Geoffrey Crawford perfectly encapsulated this sentiment at a
naturalization ceremony for 31 new Americans in Rutland, VT, last week. The summary of his powerful remarks, which he directed particularly to
our new Muslim citizens, was this: ``You are equal in the eyes of the
law.'' This simple message is clear, and unequivocal: You are welcome,
you are equal, you are protected. That is why I am introducing a resolution expressing the sense of the
Senate that no one should be blocked from entering the United States
because of their nationality, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual
orientation, gender identity, or gender. Adoption of this resolution
simply reaffirms the basic principle that this country does not have a
litmus test. It will also show that the Senate will not allow fear to
undermine the very principles and values that we cherish and that we
have sworn to defend. The resolution is consistent with the strong
bipartisan actions taken by the Senate less than 4 years ago when we
passed comprehensive immigration reform legislation that included
protections for refugees and asylum seekers. I urge Senators to come
together once again in support of my resolution.
Keywords matched
naturalization asylum seekers immigration refugees