The following is the author’s opinion and analysis.
F
Steve Christie’s January 2, 2025 opinion piece accuses local elected officials of gaslighting on immigration.
He noted that the number of immigrants is 1%, or 6,000 people, who have entered and remain in our communities illegally. And he said the Pima County administration, Casa Alitas officials, city and county Democratic elected leaders, Catholic Community Services and others are involved in local government costs to serve these people. criticized.
What he doesn’t say is that 10 local and state religious leaders, including Bishop J. “We urge you to cooperate with us in rejecting this and protecting family unity and human dignity.” (Star Opinion article, December 16, 2024, written by these 10 religious leaders.)
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Steve Christie is the local official almost solely advocating this position on local immigrants. Local elected officials and church leaders likely know the number and cost of these immigrants. Raiding churches, hospitals, schools, and other places that provide basic human needs will not build better communities.
Strong communities collaborate, plan, and make fact-based decisions. This is not gaslighting. This is what responsible elected officials, social service organizations, and conscientious church leaders do. Help us make our community a safe, livable, and proud place to live. These are not “enablers” as Steve Christie claims. They are people of conscience, integrity, and respect for the human dignity of all people.
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Fran McNeely is a former medical librarian, business owner, and active community volunteer.
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