Relations commission discusses refugees
By Bobbi Mlynar (Contact)
Originally published 12:55 p.m., November 13, 2007
Updated 12:55 p.m., November 13, 2007
Director Patty Gilligan’s report to the Emporia Human Relations Commission Monday evening sparked a discussion of information and misinformation circulating about an additional influx of refugees to the city. City Manager Matt Zimmerman reiterated the city’s commitment to participate in clarifying the issue by getting answers from officials directly involved in resettlement efforts.
Gilligan reported to the HRC about a recent meeting of the Emporia Refugee Resettlement Alliance and a luncheon meeting of city commissioners and HRC members held at the Ayan Café here.
The HRC members Monday evening talked about cultural differences, fears, and other factors that they believed were at the root of the comments on The Gazette’s Web site about expanding the number of refugees living in Emporia.
City Manager Matt Zimmerman, who attended the meeting, said that many who have posted comments have legitimate concerns about questions that have not yet been answered about plans for the refugees.
“The city commission feels we need to have a public meeting,” Zimmerman said. “Invite all the agencies to come talk about costs involved. … I think it needs to come from the agencies that are doing the work. And we’re going to invite the people who are talking on the blogs. The city commission feels there’s a lot of legitimate concerns.”
The city, Zimmerman said, needs to have a role in finding answers to the questions raised.
Commissioners came to him with instructions: “City Manager, we need to hit this issue head-on,” he said, illustrating what he was told.
Zimmerman said he wants to have the meeting by the end of the month, if it is possible to schedule in all of the parties who need to attend to provide accurate information to the community.
Gilligan said that culture, language, religion, and customs dictated by that religion seemed to be significant problems seen by Emporians. Much work already has been done to build trust in Emporia within the Somali community.
“But now I think we need to go back and build some trust in our own community,” Gilligan said.
No one has yet been able to provide the number of Somalis currently living in Emporia.
“We’ve had Asians here,” she said, “… but we just didn’t have that big a population come in.”
HRC chairperson Pru Schmidt wondered about inconsistencies in information, particularly about bloggers’ claims that Emporians who tried to apply at Tyson were turned away.
“There are comments from people that there are no jobs for them. Didn’t Farusa tell us … there were 200 openings?” Schmidt said, referring to information provided at the luncheon by Tyson community liaison Farusa Council.
HRC discussed a variety of rumors that have been circulating around the city and on the Internet about benefits received by refugees and the companies that employ them.
Zimmerman said those rumors need to be addressed by state refugee officials of the Department of State.
“Everyone has different truths and that’s sometimes hard to get at,” he said. “What we’re really talking about is taxes and services. What is the impact and who is paying for it?”
Schmidt said she believed it would be essential to have the Somali elders participate in the city’s plans for bringing in outside officials to answer questions at the public meeting. One of the elders attended the luncheon meeting last week at the Ayan.
“I don’t think people realized what the impact was when they had an elder at that meeting,” Schmidt said. “And if that elder is not consulted and made a part of what we’re trying to do, it’s going to be ten times harder to get things done.”
Zimmerman said he intends to involve the elder, and is working on finding an intermediary to contact him and act as translator.
HRC commissioner Tom Myer said he believed that it is important for business to find out what products and services are not available but are desired by the Somalis. He suggested that perhaps an investor or the Small Business Administration might be willing to provide funding for such businesses.
New businesses surfaced again when HRC members received details about an “Inclusive Community” designation offered through the National League of Cities to cities that meet certain diversity criteria. Emporia recently received a “Minorities in Success” award from the organization. The commission later will discuss whether the criteria is being met, or can be met, and will make a recommendation to the city commission.
Commissioner Steve Idhe suggested that it may be possible to make potential business contacts through families of international students.
“The best thing we can do is reach out to the people, find the potential business contact, and find out what business could come,” Ihde said. “What better way to include another culture than to include their economy?”
He suggested checking with international students to determine whether they had contacts who would be interested in opening a business or industry in Emporia.
“If we have people here, if you’re trying to develop an international economy, try while they’re here,” he said. Without a tie to the Emporia community, “they’re just going to take their education and leave.”
Also during the meeting, commission members:
• Heard from City Manager Matt Zimmerman that their roles will be to answer questions and explain rationale involved in a rental ordinance recommendation made earlier to the city commission. A joint discussion on the issue will be held at 7 p.m. Monday in St. Mark’s Lutheran Church fellowship Hall. The meeting is open to the public.
• Heard a report from Gilligan that no probable cause for action had been found when the hearing officers listened to testimony on a discrimination complaint. The respondent had offered a settlement to its former employee and remains willing to follow through with the offer. The plaintiff will decide this week whether to accept the offer or to appeal the probable cause decision.
• Discussed details of the Neighborhood Revitalization Program’s regulations and restrictions. The city commission will decide whether to continue the program and what its boundaries will be at a meeting later this month.
Comments
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Posted by create (anonymous) on November 13, 2007 at 3:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Why would the Human Relations Council even discuss any of the rumor-oriented information on the forum? That makes no sense at all to waste time doing that. What they needed to discuss is one thing and one thing only, and even Matt Zimmerman identified what that is when he said, “What we’re really talking about is taxes and services. What is the impact and who is paying for it?”
That's it! That is exactly it! THAT IS EXACTLY WHY THE PEOPLE OF EMPORIA ARE UPSET! Can you people understand this?
Patty Gilligan says, “But now I think we need to go back and build some trust in our own community.” The trust needed to come from your own group, Ms Gilligan, and from the ERRA to tell us Emporians that Emporia had been slated for a refugee resettlement center. INSTEAD WE HAD TO READ IT IN THE PAPER! You were at the ERRA meeting ms Gilligan. Did you bother to inform the commission before all that hit the paper? Bob Agler told us at our own meeting that the commissioners were never informed. Jeff Longbine told me that he was absolutely surprised to read that in the newspaper on Nov. 3. WHAT'S THE DEAL!!!
Why is it that you people can't understand this. We've been reiterating it from the very beginning.
Leave the rumors alone. Pay attention to the real issues; pay attention to what Mr. Zimmerman says, “What we’re really talking about is taxes and services. What is the impact and who is paying for it?”
GOOD GRIEF, THIS IS INCREDIBLE!!!
Posted by Raff (anonymous) on November 13, 2007 at 3:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The right hand knows not what the left hand is doing
Posted by yellow82 (anonymous) on November 13, 2007 at 4:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
AMEN create!!
Posted by Renegade (anonymous) on November 13, 2007 at 4:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Raff...
You're right. I have said that several times...and, we are being "back doored"...( a nice term for what they are really doing to us.)
The Good Ol' boys in the "smoke filled back room" are in bed with Tyson.
Posted by jasper007 (anonymous) on November 13, 2007 at 6:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)
200 job openings at Tyson??????????? HIRE ME!!!!!!!!! What's next, a GOAT stand on every corner????????????? Come on. CITY officials need to go back to the "smoke filled back room" and get it together. MORE answers, Less BS!!!!!!!!!
Posted by JudyW (anonymous) on November 13, 2007 at 8:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I want to comment on this sentence from the article:
"The HRC members Monday evening talked about cultural differences, fears, and other factors that they believed were at the root of the comments on The Gazette’s Web site about expanding the number of refugees living in Emporia."
I know that many commenters have mentioned concerns about taxes. When the issue of refugees came up in Hagerstown, Maryland, we were concerned about that too. But you have to realize that it is okay to be concerned about culture, too. People are so accustomed to being called racists that they are afraid to question or criticize another culture, but it's a perfectly natural thing to do.
Cultures are not equal. The Somali culture includes genital mutilation as a cultural norm. This is illegal in the United States, and refugees are told that. But it is a deeply seated practice -- 95 percent of Somali women are genitally mutilated -- and I would be surprised if it did not still go on here. Is that something you want in your community? Similarly, wife-beating is the norm in Somali culture. Is that okay because it's just the way they do things, or does that bother you?
Human Relations Commissions and similar people believe that it's all a matter of communication and getting over fear of different people. But it is legitimate to look at a culture that is going to become part of your community and to ask whether that culture will be a benefit or a liability to you.
If you want to put it in terms of taxes, how much more will be spent on social services if wife-beating is common? What will it cost to take steps to make sure that little girls do not have their genitals cut?
If you are interested in this point of view, please see the Diversity page on the blog Refugee Resettlement Watch at http://refugeeresettlementwatch.wordpres.... Read especially post number 2 for more specific information on Somalis, and post number 1 for the downside of diversity. We have, as many of you know, been following Emporia's experiences with great interest as we went through something similar in Hagerstown.
Posted by madmom (anonymous) on November 13, 2007 at 9:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Why Emporia???? Is it just because of Tyson I just moved back after being gone a while?? So whats up there are plenty of Emporians who need jobs and are not getting them they are being given to refugees. And grants lots of people need grants.
Posted by slipandslide (anonymous) on November 13, 2007 at 9:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)
judy thanks so much for sharing the reading. it makes alot of sense. its seems like the powers to be in emporia want to distract from the issue at hand, we cant accommadate a large influx, if they keep trying to raise cultural awareness and reduce fears, do they really think it will change how it affects emporia? no, i think they are just trying to distract and placate. the reading was really good and informative, i plan to email this around. i have relatives all over the country watching what developes in their home town, so your link will get alot of mileage.
Posted by momus (anonymous) on November 13, 2007 at 9:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Kudos to create and renegade.
We simply need to know the impact of what is being suggested before any final decision is made, and we need to know why that assessment was not done prior to an announcement. For me, this argument isn't cultural. I knew Muslims in college from northern Africa and found them to be pleasant people that did not partake in some of the horrific practices that are sometimes highlighted. For me, this is about a town of 26,000 with already strained resources attempting to absorb an indeterminate number of destitute people that we know will need to utilize the services of Emporia.
Either there was a local push from unidentified individuals associated with the government, or this is getting shoved on the community by an outside organization or company. Any way you look at it, this announcement was given without the consent or consultation from the community at large. We need to know how to prevent a similar situation from occurring in the future to prevent similar outcomes. That means demanding accountability from those that can be held accountable. I'm all for lending a helping hand, but when you potentially overwhelm a community’s capacity to give, you kill the goose that laid the golden egg. No more gold means no more help for ANYONE.
Posted by notahappycamper (anonymous) on November 13, 2007 at 9:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)
is it just me or are all of us being snowbaalled into thinking that this is such a kind and loving thing that we are doing for the people. well let me tell you it is good for them and the end of emporia as we know it if this goes through no woman or girl will be safe to walk the city streets in the day and absoultly not at night.this is not why i moved my family to a small town where the could feel safe. tb will be on the rise with bring them here and how will the local health department be able to handle the overflow. will we have to build special schools for their children to learn if so we are the ones that are going to have higher taxes. why dosen't the councel look around and notice the citizens of lyon county that are having a hard time with their precription medications because they dont have enough money left out of their social securiety checks to pay for them. remember charity begins at home and home is where it should stay
Posted by reservist (anonymous) on November 13, 2007 at 10:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Momus good points. We need to get to the bottom of this. We need to bring the government in on this and the media. Remember we need to stick together on this issue and be on the same page. If someone wants to talk to you in private about the issue bring extra friends. The feds dont want the publicity, especially when its a bunch of upset citizens that put them in office. Other towns have shut their doors to refugees. If they can do it so can we. I think our best ways to attack this issue is sticking to the impacts that this will have on our taxes, public school system, social services, and health issues that may surface. Many people will call us names, be prepared for it. We need to hold those accountable and let them know we wont tolerate it. Lets keep working together.
Posted by justthinkin (anonymous) on November 13, 2007 at 10:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Who got the grant? Catholic Community Services? Aren't they a recipient of United Way Funds? I wish I could take back my cash donation to United Way. Emporia is a giving community. Maybe we shouldn't be!
Posted by blulitespecial (anonymous) on November 13, 2007 at 10:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I think the city should ask themselves this question-Why are concerned Kansans going to the city,county,state,national,and international level to fight this? These things presented at the meeting tell me that the attitude is- "I can't believe that we got caught!" Well,ya been caught.Ignorance is no excuse.We have already gone way over your head.The city has nationwide attention.Deal with it-there is much more to come.And a couple of comments on this website threw the city leadership off-guard? How pathetic.
Posted by kelly (anonymous) on November 13, 2007 at 10:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I agree with what everyone is saying. We do not have the means or the resources to be doing this. There are Emporians that need the jobs, that need the help. So how can we bring in all this others and support them when it is hard to support what is here already. I agree there needs to be some good old protest, getting surrounding media, and national media in on this. We need to let the city and the county know that we Emporians dont want this. But what good does it do to just complain. We want something done someone needs to step up to the plate and get the ball rolling and I promise that thousands will follow, if someone is willing to step up and get the ball rolling mybe we can shut are city/county doors to the refuggees camp.
Posted by Doug (anonymous) on November 13, 2007 at 10:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Sounds to me that Patty Gilligan is already playing the racist card. She keeps pushing the cultural differences instead of the increased burden on taxes and social services. Maybe Patty is Usay?
Posted by b3bill (anonymous) on November 13, 2007 at 10:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Anyone who has lived around Emporia the past several years definitely sees the rapid downhill trend of the town. The town has lacked decent leadership for a long time to bring in decent paying jobs. Other Kansas towns get industry with decent paying jobs to move in. This is the chance for the current city officials to make some changes to improve things. There is no reason Tyson should be allowed to bring in workers to wreck the town more.
No town that is ever going to be progressive and remain a decent place to live is going to want to become a Refugee Resettlement place. It only takes a small amount of that kind of population, that typically has a very pushy arrogant attitude, to wreck the place. Even more important, they are coming from a location that does not have health codes/practices that are standard in the US. They have limited vaccinations for various diseases, lack of understanding of common cleanliness practices, etc. The whole town and surrounding area is at high risk for spread of disease. Remember the guy at Tyson who died from TB this past year?
There are more structured ways to handle refugees, rather than just simply moving them into some town like Emporia that will take them and having them run wild. Have you seen some of these Somali's drive? I have, and it is incredibly dangerous how some drive. The health background of each refugee also needs careful review by agencies commissioned for these tasks. This needs to be done *before* they are relocated.
If the leadership of Emporia wants a decent town, they will end this whole Refugee Resettlement issue immediately. There is more power that a city's leadership possesses (or can possess) than meets the eye or may be admitted to.
Everyone in Emporia needs to put constant heavy pressure on the town's leadership to clean up this problem and prevent the town from going downhill even further. They need to be held fully accountable to run the town, just like they were elected to do. All of the State Representatives and Senators should also be requested to get involved. No one should accept any excuses or stalling.
Posted by rami (anonymous) on November 13, 2007 at 11:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)
200 job openings at Tyson eh? Well, my husband will make it a point to put in an application there, but I'm sure he won't get call back since he worked in that building back in 1992. Tyson would rather bring other people in to save money...for them....to Hell with the impact on the community! Of course they are going to say what others want to hear!!
I'll be sure to keep you all posted on this.
Posted by slipandslide (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 12:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)
how can we trust that they can control the tb issue? the refugees live on dole money yet the city cant say how many are here? unless the city forgot how to count, they should have that information within easy reach, and they want us to trust them with something more complicated, keeping the tb under control? yeah , i think they are just suprised they arent being given our blessings on this. for anyone who has missed out on reading some of the links that were posted earlier today, they are good links and shows the amount of corruption tyson is into not just in emporia, but the entire corporation
Posted by emp205 (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 12:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Something to think about...first what makes the HRC or a charity knowledgible about all the associated issues related to Emporia's ability to support the resettlement?
From a personal perspective, we as a family have made the decision that we will be moving in the early spring. We need to take this step as we feel we can not continue to raise our children in a community that is so divided on so many issues. What is sad we are not the only family to come to this point.
Further, we have been very blessed by our time in Emporia, we have a very high household income and pay some of the highest taxes. We have invested our time, energy, and funds in many different organizations and our church.
All that aside, it has come down to what is best for our future and more importantly our children. Perhaps some will see this as selfish, but our responsibility is to our children.
We are both blessed, we have the education and the experience to secure employment without creating a hardship for our family.
Posted by blulitespecial (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 3 a.m. (Suggest removal)
emp205- you're moving will be a loss to this area.But I don't blame you-I may have to in the near future.I can answer part of your question about the HRC and charities knowing about issues.These"charities" (CCS)are big business,turning a profit on misery,racketeering,and human smuggling.Money flows up to DC,then is filtered back down to look"charitable",and seemingly untouchable-beyond reproach.If you read the current court documents and news articles found in links in the postings here,it is quite apparent.
Posted by create (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 3:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)
What b3bill says bears repeating. "Everyone in Emporia needs to put constant heavy pressure on the town's leadership to clean up this problem and prevent the town from going downhill even further. They need to be held fully accountable to run the town, just like they were elected to do. All of the State Representatives and Senators should also be requested to get involved. No one should accept any excuses or stalling."
I hope you have all e-mailed your State Reps and Senators, and your local city commissioners. Jerry Moran will be here on the 29th, Emporia Country Club, 12:30.
Read all of the links posted. Inform yourselves.
Refugee resettlement is profitable to the organizations involved in it. They receive money from the federal government for *each* refugee they bring over, but after 4 months the sponsoring organization is not even required to know where the refugee lives. AGAIN, I ask, what is the number of Somali here in Emporia now? WHO is in charge of knowing this? DOES their elder know? WHERE is a copy of the grant that gave the ERRA 104 thousand dollars?
If we needed to know the total number of children who were attending Emporia schools RIGHT NOW, we could have that information almost immediately. By building! By gender! By socio-economic status! By test scores! By the nth degree! WHY? Because we keep good records!!!
These "charities" or "non-profits," lets call them VOLAGS or voluntary non-government agencies, don't use their own money. They are actually federal contractors and they are getting the majority of their money from the U.S. taxpayer. In our case, that contractor or VOLAG is Catholic Charities of Kansas City, Stephen Weitkamp, in charge.
Sam Brownback harshly rejected the resettlement of Somali Bantu in Kansas, yet he is a major advocate of increased refugee immigration to the U.S. Later he told U.N. refugee chief Ruud Lubbers that he was "interested in resettling more refugees in Kansas." WHAT? Sam, what's going on?
http://www.vdare.com/allen/brownback.htm...
Wanna know why the Catholic Social Services in Lincoln, Nebraska was forced by that state to register as a used car dealer? Is it true that refugees get free cars? How does that work? Got a car you want to donate?
http://vdare.com/allen/urban_leg.htm
Please read about Lewiston, Maine, a small city just like ours.
http://www.vdare.com/francis/maine.htm
Let's stay informed so nobody sneaks in the back door.
Posted by create (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 4:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Yes, emp205, bluelitespecial is correct. Charities and non-profits are sandwiched comfortably between many layers of federal money and tax programs dependent on taxpayer funding. And I'm sorry you are leaving. We need people like you, but I understand your reasons. Don't forget to tell your city commissioners personally that you are leaving and why. In the meantime, I hope we can count on your opinion and good sense.
Posted by funston (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 6:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)
As long as we are going to change to an international economy, I can be counted on for all the shrunken heads we will need to stimulate the local economy.
I might as well, I have a beautiful advanced post graduate education in two languages, and working on a third language, and nobody will hire me in Emporia.Yet a special branch of the US Government is begging me to come back because of my advanced knowledge and education.
Am I the one that's crazy here or is it Emporia? I came back to be safe so don't screw up Emporia! My guess is that you won't hire me because I'm white with way to much education. Emporia can't stand someone who knows more than they do and has actually lived outside of Lyon County for a long time.. Advanced knowledge means nothing to a bunch of uptight, short sited, narrow minded, condescending, neurotic, hypocritical, tight lipped hicks. Especially the guy who runs this newpaper.
After lots of reflection I really can't blame those who want to leave. I thought I could get used to sub level warfare, but if it's coming to Emporia I might a well go back to the hot spots again. Why come back to a hot spot?
May the God of Light help all of us.
Posted by citizenT (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 7:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Bravo Matt Zimmerman for stating (and restating) the issue at hand when others at your meeting wanted to turn this issue into something about race! The majority of the bloggers on this issue have REPEATEDLY stated that their concerns are about the economic effect on our community. I am sick of people throwing out the race card to deflect from the real issues! It is so much easier to hide behind the term racism than it is to answer the community's legitimate questions. HRC representatives need to stop giving the minority of idiots the time of day and listen to the real issues stated by the majority and give some answers!
Posted by emporialive (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 10:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Patty Gilligan quit playing the race card and deal with the real issues. According to your job description you should be checking into why Tyson will only hire refugees not anyone else. To me that would be discrimination against non refugees. So before you act out that everyone is making this a race issue maybe you should do your job and quit hiding the truth from the people of Emporia.
“But now I think we need to go back and build some trust in our own community,” Gilligan said.
Why don't we start with you be honest and provide the information that is available to you. Maybe if you were not trying to hide everything maybe someone would trust you a bit more.
"This Commission consists of nine members and is appointed by the Governing Body. The Commission is to investigate alleged unfair or discriminatory practices among diverse groups of our citizens in regard to discrimination, segregation and separation based on the race, religion, color, sex, age, physical handicap, national origin, or ancestry of individuals in the securing or holding of employment, public accommodations and housing. The Human Relations Coordinator is appointed by the City Manager.
Members serve a three-year term which expires on May 1 and may serve no more than two consecutive three-year terms . This Commission meets on the 2nd Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in the City Commission/Municipal Court Room. (Ord. #1141 - re-established the Commission.)"
Matt Zimmerman hit the nail on the head, why is this so secretive information when it is supposed to be public information.
I want to see the long term effects on taxes and the health dept. funding, as it clear to see how it has effected other cities in the USA.
What is going to make it different here?
What is the grant supporting? What is the grant number,which is public information BTW.
How much will taxes have to be raised to cover increased health, police, and damage to property.
How much are we going to have to come up with to fund extra programs in the schools for their children whom don't speak English.
How hard is it going to be to get a dual language teacher who speaks their language, as we all know how hard it was to keep Spanish dual language teachers here.
It doesn't have to be this hard to get answers if the people that are involved and hiding out would come forward and let the people of Emporia know the facts and projected effects on taxes, jobs and health.
Posted by create (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 10:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Great comments and excellent questions, Emporialive. Right on target!
Posted by create (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 10:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)
***URGENT NOTICE***
All citizens concerned about
Emporia becoming a refugee
resettlement are urged to
attend a meeting with city leaders
on November 28, 6 pm. in the Little
Theatre, White Auditorium. Officials
say they plan to answer your
questions. Please have solid
questions and comments. We
have been informed that
Congressman Moran may attend.
State legislators will also attend.
This is the time to get your answers.
Posted by create (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 11:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Let's see your numbers, Emporia!!!
Posted by create (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 11:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The folks on the east coast are keeping an eye on us. Here is a fresh message for us, Emporia. Blog on!
http://refugeeresettlementwatch.wordpres...
Posted by Russ (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 12:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I found this on the web, thought it was an interesting read, it may take a couple posts to get it all in
Immigration Pros and Cons
Public interest in the costs versus benefits of immigration
has prompted researchers to attempt to provide
answers. However, there is wide disagreement in the
findings of the researchers, because of conflicting and
sometimes inadequate data. Although undocumented
immigrants are part of the equation, they are also, by
their very nature, a difficult population to quantify.
Therefore, the results are inconclusive. Some
researchers maintain that immigrants are a major
financial drain, while others conclude that immigrants
eventually put more into the system than they take out.
Even illegal aliens pay into the system through sales,
gasoline, and other taxes and through income and
social security with the use of forged green and social
security cards.
A comprehensive study released by the National
Academy of Science in May 1997 found that immigrants
compete for jobs with low-skilled American
workers, especially high-school dropouts. Although
immigration increases overall employment, it
decreases the job prospects of some native-born workers
and reduces the earnings of others. However, the
economy as a whole benefits from the goods and services
provided by cheap immigrant labor. Small businesses,
in particular, benefit from inexpensive labor
which allows them to be competitive. Some studies
conclude that immigrant workers improve the economy
because their demand for goods creates more
jobs than they fill.
Posted by Russ (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 12:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Although immigrants have a positive impact on the
overall economy, they have a negative fiscal impact at
the state and local level. The largest immediate cost is
in education. Local schools must deal with the difficulty
of teaching children who have little or no
English skills and who come from many different cultures.
The Spanish-speaking population, for instance,
shares a common language but represents a mosaic of
cultural traditions. In some parts of the country, teachers
must be bilingual as a prerequisite to employment.
However, once educated and employed, the immigrant
population becomes a plus as they begin to pay into
the system through income and social security taxes.
Because the number of births of American-born
women is declining, most of our population growth
has come, and will continue to come, through the
influx of immigrants. This has prompted some to conclude
that the current immigrant population will pay
for the baby-boomers' retirement, since most immigrants
are young and have many years of employment ahead of them
Many immigrants coming to the United States are
well-educated, but find that they must take a job below
their skill level because employers disregard foreign
diplomas. This makes these immigrants a valuable
asset to employers. On the other hand, recent statistics
indicate that growing numbers of immigrants are coming
from poorer countries where education levels are
far below U.S. standards. This means that the cost of
turning them into productive citizens will be greater.
Another area of concern is that low-skilled, Englishdeficient
immigrants are vulnerable to employer
exploitation. Sweatshops have been discovered where
immigrants are employed at sub-minimum wages,
receive no benefits, pay no social security, and work
under conditions that violate health and safety standards.
Recent immigrants are more likely to have lower
incomes, live in poverty, and have a higher rate of
unemployment than the native-born, but seem to
improve their condition after living here for 6 years. In
fact, those that have been here since the 1970s have
incomes comparable to natives.
Posted by create (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 1:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Thanks, Russ. Lots of very interesting info. Sounds like we are repeating our own history and it's back to the American Industrial Revolution where many of the same conditions you refer to existed at the time.
Posted by blulitespecial (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 1:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I hope Congressman Moran understands that most attending the 28th will be highly upset if he glosses over the very real,important issues. I'm in no mood for the 'why can't we all get along' speech.
Posted by create (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 1:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I do know that his office in Salina keeps tabs on these forums. I'm guessing he knows how upset we are. I agree, the "why can't we be friends" song will not play well. I'm just hoping he shows up.
Posted by ANativeEmporian (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 1:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)
If the point of the discussion is that Emporia can't handle an influx of a thousand new people, then that's fine. Bring it up and demand to know how government will help bring in the jobs to help offset the new increase in workforce.
However the panic and racism is just astoundingly amusing. The same lines were used about Catholics, Blacks, Asians, or anyone else that wasn't the same as the standard White folks. Middle America is mortified by the notion of anything different, and fear is used to help stur the panic - the posters that comment how "their daughters won't be able to walk the streets at night." This is the exact line used every time. Would you really like to go over the police blotter for the last year and see what race was most common over the last year in rapes, domestic violence, or assaults?
The post about genital mutilation is another one - what about coming up in arms about rednecks who are perfectly certain that beating their wives because it's within their rights is an ok thing.
What, you're scared that there'll be a new church in town? Pathetic. The basic Christian teachings (which Emporia so loves to believe itself), is that you'll give a stranger the cloak off your back even to your own detriment. Right now how many pulpits are busy preaching against the newcomers by talking suspision, intolerance, or hatred?
If you want somewhere to talk from, then stick with the points of limited jobs. And unemployment being high in Emporia already - there's the one position that's almost respectible. However given this many new people coming into the area, there's inherent new job development to support them (social services, businesses, etc).
I've never been quite so embarassed by Emporia as I have by the citizens being so mobilized and brainwashed to fear the Catholics... I mean Mexicans... oh, wait, which ones is it this time?
Posted by open_eyes (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 2:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Yes, yes, we get it. Anything other than discussing $$$ and jobs is racism. As I've stated before, I've been to places and seen the results of turning a blind eye to everything.
Good point on the pulpits - what are you hearing spouted these days at the mosques across the world?
Posted by Raff (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 2:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)
To ANativeEmporian:
You shouldn't be embarrased by Emporia for stating their fears and concerns in a public, albeit anonymous forum.
You should be grateful that the forum isn't government monitored and retaliation inherent to those whose voice differs from the "political right". You should be happy that in Our Country and Our Communities that people are allowed to voice an opinion and that we as citizens have a right that our ideas and opinions can be different and/or contradictory from one anothers.
As I said before in an earlier post:
..."some were suprised at the large influx of peoples that seemingly appeared out of nowhere, yet the citizens welcomed them with open arms."
The Somali refugees have by action and attitude left the public questioning the decision to welcome them first place. Now, as it seems that they are not integrating themselves into our community, others feel compelled to relocate more to our fine community.
While I agree that the topic should not be about culture or race, it was pointed out to me that culture and race can be affecting the social impact of Emporia. But, we need to tackle one issue at a time. Deal with the limited amount of social services, limited jobs, possible corporate shenanigans, and improper use of tax payer monies. That list is not including strain on housing (or lack of) and possible lack of specialized services.
You said there are inherent job development to support them? Where? Fardusa Council,community liaison for Tyson stated that there were 200 openings for the refugees. If there are openings, why isn't on Tyson's website? Why aren't people from the local and surrounding communities allowed to apply for them?
As for the social services? An office maybe created and employ staff personnel, but as in most social offices, you are talking maybe 20 people. Since those positions can't be fully manned by refugees, where are the refugees going to work? 20 positions for Emporians at the Social Services office vs 200 positions at Tysons for the refugees? Seems lopsided to me.
And if they are not working, why should my tax dollars, from being gainfully employed, support someone who has not even put anything into the system and quite possible will not? Even the majority of single mothers or hardluck families have contributed to the system at some point in time.
Just some points to consider.
Posted by Bill_Cowell (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 3:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
After the many negative comments in the Emporia Gazette relative to the refugees living there, it is time someone checked to find out what God has to say about the matter.
"When an alien lives with you in your land, do not mistreat him. The alien living with you must be treated as one of your native-born. Love him as yourself, for you were aliens in Egypt. I am the Lord your God." (Leviticus 19:33, 34)
"Do not mistreat the alien or oppress him, for you were aliens in Egypt. Do not oppress an alien; you yourselves know what it feels to be aliens, because you were aliens in Egypt." (Exodus 23:9)
"Cursed is the man who witholds justice from the alien, the fatherless or the widow." (Deuteronomy 27:19)
Granted, these scriptures are from the Pentateuch, containing the Old Testament Law, much of which has been fulfilled and is no longer binding on us today. However, God Himself does not change, and there is no good reason to think that His attitude toward refugees would be any different today than it was then.
How about trying love, kindness and acceptance to the strangers among us. It's no wonder the image of our country is going downhill in the eyes of the world today. Our Statue of Liberty says, "Give me your huddled masses yearning to breathe free." There has never been any update to that statement that would render the offer void.
Rev. Bill Cowell
Hutchinson, KS
Posted by create (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 3:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Native emporian, nobody is fearing Catholics. That's the kind of rhetoric that muddies the water, and don't tell me you don't intend to do just that. It just so happens that the VOLAG responsible for this particular scenario in Emporia is Catholic Charities in KC. That's it, period. If the VOLAG were the Happiness Club of Timbuktu, we would be pointing to them instead.
Yes, yes, we plan to stick to discussions and questions relating to the impact of large numbers of newcomers on Emporia. We've been saying this from the beginning, on and on ad infinitum. Okay? Why are you now popping up to advise us except to point to what you call "panic and racism." The bottom line is that people have a right to say what sort of community they want to live in.
I am expecting that thoughtful, intelligent people will accept the fact that there will be a certain percentage of opinions that are bigoted. Do you have any big, fancy ideas about how to control public opinion? That happens to be how the general public is -- anywhere in the world. Did I hear you use the term, "rednecks"? Don't be embarassed about Emporia, native Emporian, come to the meeting. And remember this, the public has a right to demand answers!!!
I knew in the beginning that people like you would cry racist. But I have shown my face and have given up my anonymity anyway. Have you???
Posted by open_eyes (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 3:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I would agree Rev, but remember - it works both ways.
Posted by Raff (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 3:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Hurrah for create. thank you.
Dear Reverend: This discussion should not be based or biased nor steeped in religion. Your quotations bring to mind one other:
"Men never do evil so completely and cheerfully as when they do it from a religious conviction."
-Blaise Pascal
Posted by justthinkin (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 3:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Maybe the Somalis should go to Hutchinson - sounds like they are welcome there..... that is as long as they are here.
Posted by wirewatt (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 3:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I did some work last April on what Tyson's pay in taxes to Lyon County. Listed is the amounts I was able to find. I am sure they are not 100% accurate now but it will provide an insight to the amount.
Class Land Bldgs Totals
Cu 529,860 9,013,310 9,543,170
Ru 274,920 200,710 475,630
Ex 6,797,530 6,797,530
Cu Commercial is assessed at 25%, Ru Residentical is assessed at 11.5%, Ex is exempt to taxes.
I didn't get the personnal property.
I think we need to involve the Lyon Co. Commissioners in this as they provide our tax money to the Flint Hills Comm. Health Center where all these people go for health, dental, eye glasses. I feel Tyson's need to provide the costs in the cheap labor they are bringing into the community. If they have a big problem with this we need to look at cutting the monies being provided to the Health Center, without funding someone is going to have to do something.
I read some very good comments that need looking into and it hope it will be done. We need to start a site where we can pledge monies to start a fund at a bank to hire someone with the experience and knowledge to sort this problem out. We would need a chairperson and a steering committe and have all the meetings public, and not secret as has been the case in the past.
Posted by create (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 3:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm all for that, wirewatt, but that person would certainly have to be a professional as you say "with the experience and knowledge to sort this problem out." Perhaps there is somewhere we can apply for a grant. :) Yes, pledges to a bank. And no secret meetings as the ERRA has done to us when this entire thing was backdoored and dropped on us almost casually. And this may be a moot point now, but the fact that we as a community were not consulted or invited to any meetings still sticks in our craws.
Posted by momus (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 3:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I think the bloggers on this board are basically good people, but there comes a point when a community knows that they are getting into a situation that they cannot handle economically. I don't think most churches would advocate a strategy of giving until you are so destitute that you can no longer afford to give, and conversely have to rely on others. That may be what we are talking about here, but we don't know for sure because we don't have specifics.
I still don't understand how you announce a resettlement center without any idea of how it will impact a community. And while everyone is handing out compliments to city officials, I have to wonder why no one knew this was coming. I have a hard time believing that something as huge as a resettlement center never made it on an agenda prior to the last meeting. I think there may be some covering of rears going on right now.
I agree that we need to keep race and religion out of this debate. I know that there is a lot of fear out there, but I believe a lot of the fear can subside with some education and willingness by immigrants to integrate into the existing society. For me, this boils down to two concerns: 1. The potential economic impact. And, 2. It seems that individuals that are not directly accountable to the public (unelected officials) are making major decisions that could severely impact the future of this community. I don't care how religious you are, if someone takes without asking, it is stealing. That's how I feel right now, like I have been stolen from. People are expecting to make massive changes to the community without the common decency to ask the citizens of Emporia first.
Posted by eiggohp (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 4:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I live out of town and was seriously thinking about moving back to Emporia to retire....but I want a good, safe, clean place to live and it sounds like Emporia has become anything BUT that place....so I'll look elsewhere.
I can not drive there for the meeting, but I hope you have a good one and many who have written on this (and many others also) show up and "put their money where their mouth is".....good luck.
I was wondering if anyone has contacted Sen./Dr. Barnett. He is from there and being a doctor, and a past school board member, he sees the drain this is causing on health care and the additional costs it is causing the school system. I don't know if this can be handled on the state level, but maybe it would be a start.
GOOD LUCK....and I'll keep reading your comments.
Posted by create (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 4:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Absolutely, momus! I especially like your idea that a group of unelected people, totally unaccountable, are making decisions that will severely impact this community for years, and years to come. And it seemed to have happened so casually.
Posted by madmom (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 4:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)
This is just to much for Emporia to take the resources, Housing, Where will they all live? Emporia has become so much more spread put in recent years. I live in the country like the quiet is Emporia going to stretch all the way out here. And how about auto insurance are they covered? There are so many things to look at. Will they stay in Emporia? Once they move here? Are they all going to be vaccinated before going to work at Tyson? What are the regulations of Tyson? Momus I agree "if they take without asking they are stealing" Emporia nor most of us residents are not ready for this, the panel needs to think and ask before offering our town.
Posted by blulitespecial (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 4:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I made some pointed remarks about the CCS and meant them.Makes no difference what the initials are.The main idea was to get a response,and wider attention for this situation in Emporia.Some words were mine,but most were the words of Federal prosecutors,and a judge agreed.Please read the official court documents,then decide for yourself.
Posted by create (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 6:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Good point, tre. We have to discuss cultural issues too. But it IS possible to discuss all of these issues without making racist remarks, OR making biased judgements about religion. Unfortunately, some of the writers here have invited accusations of bigotry. But to discuss cultural issues, yes. People have a right to say what sort of community they want to live in.
Posted by wtrdog (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 8:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I have read & reread this article trying to make sense of some of the comments & quotes made. I do believe that some of the responders have overlooked or understated some crucial & questionable comments.
1. “But now I think we need to go back and build some trust in our own community,” Gilligan said.
Why would you ever consult/console/support/build trust with anyone before the citizens of your own community? The taxpayer who is footing the financial burden is playing second fiddle to the refugees.
2. "No one has yet been able to provide the number of Somalis currently living in Emporia."
Are you formally admitting that you have mishandled or miscounted the Somali population in Emporia? If you are unable to provide such simple but critical information then you are either not capable of doing your job. In any sense you are obviously not wanting to be held accountable to the public.
3. HRC chairperson Pru Schmidt wondered about inconsistencies in information, particularly about bloggers’ claims that Emporians who tried to apply at Tyson were turned away.
“There are comments from people that there are no jobs for them. Didn’t Farusa tell us … there were 200 openings?” Schmidt said, referring to information provided at the luncheon by Tyson community liaison Farusa Council.
If there are infact over 200 openings then where are the advertisements for said positions? Are they actively trying to employ local citizens? If so how are they trying to do so? How many local citizens are being employed by Tyson as opposed to how many immigrant workers? All this information bares weight & sheds light in the right direction, Which all will be closely guarded by Tyson officials & those who are in cahoots with Tyson.
4. HRC commissioner Tom Myer said he believed that it is important for business to find out what products and services are not available but are desired by the Somalis. He suggested that perhaps an investor or the Small Business Administration might be willing to provide funding for such businesses.
Commissioner Steve Idhe suggested that it may be possible to make potential business contacts through families of international students.
You must be kidding! The Citizens of this community are crying out for answers. Some fine taxpaying citizens are packing their bags to find more suitable living/community conditions where those officials actually listen to & respond to their communities needs & concerns. The officials here are not responding & using the ploy that they were blindsided by the entire situation. Yet you are investigating how to cater business to their needs? How to provide funding for said businesses to do so. I could quote this over & over, But I hope I am not the only one seeing how wrong this is & how much the good people of Emporia are being ignored to make way for this so called
"international economy" thats someone (who will probably remain anonymous) decided was what we all wanted.
Posted by wtrdog (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 8:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I do not believe the people of this community are being taken seriously. There are far to many officials who should have known about this situation before the original news article was published. And again, far to many who are playing the "surprised" role. If no one knew, And they should have, Does that mean we are not fulfilling our responsibilities to the citizens that voted you in?
To the people playing the race card; Are you not able to come up with anything original? The so called race card is one of the most overplayed excuses in American society, Whether it is racism or reverse racism. Find a viable excuse for your reaction to the uproar of the public following your ignorant arrogant behavior.
To those who believe that the public concerns being brought to bare on these forums are not legitimate because of anonymity; The Federal Government uses anonymity in the voting system, The City & County Governments also use the same system. Law Enforcement agencies ranging from Local to Federal use Anonymous tip lines to catch criminals. The list goes on & on, But I am sure you understand my meaning by now. If you cannot understand the importance of views,concerns,questions raised anonymously, Then maybe you are part of the problem in concealing the truth instead of contributing positively to the citizens your community.
Posted by create (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 8:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Wtrdog, you make me feel so good. Thank you. Wow!
Everyone, here's another notice so you don't forget this very important meeting.
***URGENT NOTICE***
All citizens concerned about
Emporia becoming a refugee
resettlement are urged to
attend a meeting with city leaders
on November 28, 6 pm. in the Little
Theatre, White Auditorium. Officials
say they plan to answer your
questions. Please have solid
questions and comments. We
have been informed that
Congressman Moran MAY attend.
State legislators will also attend.
This is the time to get your answers.
Posted by create (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 8:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Also, here's another link that answers questions about why we need volunteer non-government agencies. Good read.
http://refugeeresettlementwatch.wordpres...
Posted by create (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 8:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)
momus said earlier and rightfully in this thread, "Either there was a local push from unidentified individuals associated with the government, or this is getting shoved on the community by an outside organization or company."
I wonder who stands to make the most $$$. There's a money trail in here somewhere, much of it points to Catholic Charities in KC. The State of Kansas Department of SRS is in the formula somewhere too. But all the HRR's cultural understanding in the world will still not address the economic impact all this will have on Emporia when all is said and done. And the Impact Statement is where?
Posted by TruthBeTold (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 9:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Emporians for Democracy you elected your officials, now lay in your bed.
Posted by wtrdog (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 9:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Thanks Create, I just wanted to say what I feel needs to be said. More has come to mind since.
Kstrebuchet, I think you may have a point. The people, including myself need to step up & take action against this situation. Sitting in our homes & complaining about it is only going to take us so far if anywhere. The Federal Government is bringing these refugees into our country. Charities, So called "non profit groups" & the "HRC" are setting up shop to advocate their influx into our society. Local Government & Commissioners are are supposedly "trying to get to the bottom of the situation", All the while trying to figure out how to turn a profit from it. All except for one, Mr. Zimmerman. I think he may just be as concerned as the rest of the community. I commend him for reiterating the publics concerns even though it it obviously fell of deaf ears. It is truly sad that when you must place faith, It be in the "new guy" in town. I know for a fact I don't have any faith in the commission who think with their wallets & checkbook rather than their heads & hearts. My question is this, Who do we trust? Who do we place our faith in when so many seem to ignore the taxpaying citizens & instead of upholding the needs & desires of its people, inspire us to believe they are nothing more than a group corrupted self indulged hypocrites lining their pocketbooks.
Posted by blulitespecial (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 9:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)
That link IS a good read.Sure applies to why Sen.Brownback turned tail on the resettlement issue.Methinks he cannot be counted on for intervention.Or Gov.Sebelius.They both had their hands out,and wanted support.These "relief" agencies are in it at the very top.Remember,they've been doing this for a long time,and there's a lot of money involved. It looks like both Brownback and Sebelius are bought and paid for.Seems the parties DO work together at the 'highest' level.Congressman Moran will hopefully be a better bet. We also may have friends at the State level,and perhaps the AG and a judge would order the KCC to look at the used car shell game.
Posted by TruthBeTold (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 9:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)
It seems a few people on here know more than the people in charge.....i.e. Create and Kstrebuchet I guess they have bigger agendas perhaps mayor? But since Kstrebuchet has no tact (look it up) he could never win.
Posted by stickerbush (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 11:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I find it interesting that someone who has never attended a HRC meeting could take a stand that the commission is lining their pockets and not using their heads and hearts. The HRC was charged by the city commission to review and to come up with ideas to help with the Somali population intregration into the Emporia community. They have no way to think with their wallets. The idea as I understand it was to help the somali population to better integrate by helping them to give back to the economy of Emporia.
Posted by TruthBeTold (anonymous) on November 14, 2007 at 11:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Who says I wasnt there?
Posted by jmanmurawski (anonymous) on November 15, 2007 at 12:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)
After reading all of these negative insights, I thought I would share my own thoughts. I’m 17 years old, and after living in this neighborhood for seven years, I have witnessed a lot of hatred towards the Mexicans and Somalis. I support the Somalis seeking refuge in Emporia. What is wrong with immigration? This country was built on immigration, and without it, we would not be here today. Whatever happened to the melting pot and land of opportunity here in America? Many ideas have been exchanged and built this country to where it is today. We need to stop thinking about ourselves. If we would learn what Somalia is going through, we might come to our senses. Doing good things to people makes you a better and happier person, but Americans seem to forget these steps. No wonder people around the world dislike America, because of our rudeness and near-sighted views. In my opinion, this is no economic or political issue, but more of a moral issue.
Posted by open_eyes (anonymous) on November 15, 2007 at 12:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)
jman, you bring up alot of good points, look up what it means to be a "melting pot". It does not mean come to a country and refuse to assimilate and demand special treatment.
Posted by Bjnemp (anonymous) on November 15, 2007 at 12:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)
jman, my boy: when you are paying what I pay in taxes just to see them spent on free health care, food, shelter, and luxuries for indignant and disprespectful refugees and criminal immigrants, jump into the fray. Until then, study economics and American history.
Posted by TruthBeTold (anonymous) on November 15, 2007 at 12:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I disagree.............Americans are Known internationally as the worst tourists.............Compared to us Filthy Americans they assimilate the best that they can considering they have never learned to read
Posted by open_eyes (anonymous) on November 15, 2007 at 12:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Gee, that's funny. I've been to alot of foreign countries, and they run out of their way to swarm over us American tourists. Constantly get told they love American tourists (I'm sure because we drop the dime).
Wow, the new things I'm learning here.......
Posted by blulitespecial (anonymous) on November 15, 2007 at 3:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Well,this looks like it's pretty close to the top of the foodchain.Contact and email away!
http://www.state.gov/g/prm/
Posted by TheProtectionist (anonymous) on November 15, 2007 at 9:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Posted by TheProtectionist
Iowa Beef/Tyson has ruined our community and Emporia leaders have always heavily supported this business. Why have so many concessions been given to Tyson and apparently not extended to other businesses to entice them to come to Emporia. We need to focus on NEW economic and community development instead of continuing to support the one business who is ruining our town. I know people that won't come to even visit because of the stench in the air that spews out of that plant. The Somalians are extremely rude and act we should be happy to get out of their way and allow them to run us over. I have had many unpleasant encounters with them at area stores and I have had it with their superior attitude. They are arrogant and unappreciative of what we have provided for them. They are not entitled...where do they get this attitude?
I think we need to stop allowing our lifestyle to be stripped from us as a community and nation. So many of us are frustrated and feel powerless against the people we have chosen to be "in power" and represent us. On the local, state and national level, people are going to start rebelling and I'm afraid we are going to have an uprising that will be similiar to a Civil War because the people are being ignored by the folks put in place to represent us. Once they are put in a position of power by "We The People", the people get shafted and it seems we can't remove the power from those we have trusted to represent us...but the fact is that "we the people" are only being used as a stepping stone to aid the ambitious power hungry theives who elevate themselves above the interests of the people who put them in that position. We need to take a stand and save ourselves against the politicians and community leaders who don't listen to their constituency and save ourselves, our community, state and nation. I will do whatever I can do to help protect what we have worked so hard to achieve. We need to stand up and protect what we have worked so hard to build and stop allowing our sovereignty and lifestyle to be stripped from us. Let the people decide what we are willing to "give" but stop ripping the dollars from our wallets and peace from our minds. We are a generous people but we are being taken advantage of as a community and nation as non-Americans come in and soak up all of our social services without ever having paid into them. Take away the magnets and there won't be an incentive to come. Feel free to contact me if there is anything I can do to help protect our community
Posted by create (anonymous) on November 15, 2007 at 7:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
My gosh, Protectionist, that was magnificent! Please come to the meeting on the 28th, 7 p.m. Little Theatre. We need your voice.
wtrdog said,"...Mr. Zimmerman. I think he may just be as concerned as the rest of the community. I commend him for reiterating the publics concerns even though it it obviously fell of deaf ears."
You're right, and I too commend him because he tried to retrack the discussion onto the fact that the public does indeed have legitimate concerns. And you're right again, it seemed to have fallen on deaf ears. You know why? It's a lot easier to accuse someone of racism and lack of understanding than it is to look at the facts. You have to stop and look at facts; you have to actually THINK about facts.
blulite, I'm glad you read that posting I linked. Sure explains a lot. I hope we aren't disappointed by Congressman Moran. At any rate, have your questions ready.
Truth, thanks for the compliment on running for mayor. Actually, I'm just a little old lady wanting to work on my quilts and grow my vegetable garden. ;)
****Hmmm, Stickerbush says, "The HRC was charged by the city commission to review and to come up with ideas to help with the Somali population intregration into the Emporia community."
So is this where the resettlement idea originated. How did it get from a small meeting of the ERRA to a Refugee Resettlement Center? Is the HRC involved?
Last, but most important is a comment to jman. I respect your courage to admit your age in writing, young man, and what you say about our being a nation of immigrants is true. But look more carefully at our history, jman, okay? This country was built on immigration, yes, but those who migrated here at the turn of the century and long into the early 20th century were people who had nowhere else to turn but to themselves. They had no government programs to turn to and bleed dry. The state and feds would have gone bankrupt long ago if that were true. Our immigrant ancestors stood on their own two feet, ate potato soup for weeks, or tomato sandwiches like the Italians did. Could you build a skyscraper all day long on a tomato sandwich? There was rarely any meat in their households. Only poverty and one other thing -- a work ethic. A damn strong work ethic. We all have that now, a work ethic that is famous round the world. They did not run to the nearest program for handouts. The toughed it out and made the rest of us what we are today. I'm glad my grandfather refused to speak Portuguese in the home. He told my father, "NO, you speak English!" Does that help, jman?
Sorry folks, hope you weren't bored; the teacher in me surfaced.
Posted by wtrdog (anonymous) on November 15, 2007 at 9:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
stickerbush,
So are you part of the Commision or part of the HRC? I seem to have struck a chord with you with my comments. Such a defensive posture on your part leads me to believe you are part of one or the other, Or possibly you have something to gain as well. Please enlighten me, What positive affects the refugee population could have in the Emporia community. We don't even have an accurate count of how many we are already here. But lets just say for arguments sake that there are 1000. That is 1000 salaries we the taxpayer are in some way shape or form paying for. That is an additional 1000 people using the public health care system that we the taxpayer are paying for.
"The idea as I understand it was to help the somali population to better integrate by helping them to give back to the economy of Emporia."
We the people are footing the bill for the Somali people by paying our high taxes. Exactly how would it be possible for the refugees to ease the financial burden they & the Government have bestowed upon us ( I mean crammed down our throats). I'm positive everyone would be most eager to find this out.
Posted by create (anonymous) on November 15, 2007 at 9:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
********NOTICE ***A change in time*******
The time for the meeting on Nov. 28th has been changed to 7 p.m. It was at 6 p.m. See everyone there.
Posted by wtrdog (anonymous) on November 15, 2007 at 9:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
jmanmurawski,
I truly respect that you posted your opinion. Everyone, Young & old are entitled to that. However, You must understand that as you grow older, situations effect your life differently. You received the brush off from some, But I think in essence you have a good & valid point. But please let me ask you this.
In America, We have homeless Americans, Many have fought for this country & the freedoms we ALL share. We have starving children. We have poverty stricken families of all races who are American taxpayers. These are just a few examples, But my point is, We have many of the worlds issues in our own backyard. What is being morally done to aid our own situation? Why must we travel around the world to solve another Countries problems when we have the same problems within our Nations borders with our own people.
It is not immoral to want to rid ourselves of our problems before we handle the problems of the world. It is a question of priority.
Posted by wtrdog (anonymous) on November 15, 2007 at 9:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Kstrebuchet, Thanks for the insight my friend. Way to make my head hurt!! lol I was unaware of the numbers, But I was somewhat aware of what the reasoning was behind it. However, I was speaking of why some people are (in theory) opposed to the immigration/refugee situation.
Posted by create (anonymous) on November 16, 2007 at 1:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Keeping you posted on how Emporia is making the national scene:
http://refugeeresettlementwatch.wordpres...
Posted by stickerbush (anonymous) on November 16, 2007 at 1:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
If you read a previous post by me you would have known that I neither support or don't support the Somali resettlement. I am still trying to find out the correct information. First, i would ask you some questions.
1. do you believe that the infrastructure of Emporia can hold the influx of 1,000 more people?
2. what would you like to see happen?
3. Would you be able to live with the Somali population that is now here, but not more?
I have been to the meetings and I have heard commissioners, from the city and the HRC say that they were not a part of the bringing the Somali population to Emporia. My stand is not defensive, however yours is. My stand is to find out what is really the correct information and deal with the situation accordingly.
Posted by stickerbush (anonymous) on November 16, 2007 at 1:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)
wtrdog
How do you know that your tax dollars are funding the Somalis?
I ask because I cannot seem to find correct info on this question.
some answers I have gotten are;
they are subsidized when they come to the US, then when they have jobs the subsidy stops, and they are given a Vision card to help with medical care if they only work part time.
so if you can answer this one I would appreciate it.
Posted by open_eyes (anonymous) on November 16, 2007 at 2:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
wtrdog, your comment "Why must we travel around the world to solve another Countries problems when we have the same problems within our Nations borders with our own people.
It is not immoral to want to rid ourselves of our problems before we handle the problems of the world."
Right on. Reminds me of a bible verse....
For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?
I look around me and it's pretty obvious we don't even know how to take care of our own yet... :(
Posted by create (anonymous) on November 16, 2007 at 2:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
stickerbush, the answers to your questions have appeared throughout these three threads on the topic of refugees since the beginning story on Nov.3.
Here is an additional consideration I wish to post. I have just finished watching the movie, "Amazing Grace" just out on DVD.
This is the true story of William Wilberforce and his quest to end British slave trade. As I watched this film, I began to put it all in terms of what is going on here in Emporia and other cities all over this country. This isn't the fault of the Somali people, not hardly. This is the fault of Big Business like Tyson. The Somali people have been victimized by Tyson and other companies like it, just as their African ancestors were victimized by the Big Business Planters of the 18th century. And this is no different than the same kind of slavery going on today, only it's legal because the Somali people fit into the category of refugees. In addition, Big Business is victimizing cities like Emporia too as they make their deals with labor contractors like Catholic Charities who are complicit in this entire sham and should also be held accountable as they milk the federal and state funds belonging to the tax payers themselves. The Office of Refugee Resettlement is also complicit in the legal slave trade. The more I research, the more I realize what is really going on beneath our very noses. So many have been willing to look and study and become informed; so many have allowed their bigotry to guide their reactions; so many have looked away, shielding their eyes as well as their faces; and so many have chosen to simply accuse others of racism --they too are complicit. You know what? I'm sick of all this.
Posted by minorityinemporia (anonymous) on November 16, 2007 at 3 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I want to give you a BIG AMEN ! I am so proud of you CREATE , I have read some of your early post and I would never call you a Racist or Bigot , I would call you a concern citizen of Emporia . I am African American and I can tell in your voice that God has truly spoken to you !!!!!!!!
Posted by minorityinemporia (anonymous) on November 16, 2007 at 3:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)
You are right ! Big Corporation do not care what color , race religion , they only care about , how much money they can make. I learned that from one of the biggest scandals ever .
ENRON, I saw this guy on tv about early or late 60' years of age and he was crying saying that he was about retire and he had over 1.2 Million dollars in Stock and then Wall Street had kicked Enron off the stock market once it went under $1.00 his stock was worth $.00 , He was crying and saying They destroyed my life , how will I be able to start over at my age. Sad but true
Posted by minorityinemporia (anonymous) on November 16, 2007 at 3:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Until we get a Government that will make them responsible for their actions it will only get worse for us before it get any better. Stay focus and I will Pray for you to continue your fight. Please do not give up , too many of us don't try hard enough. I can remeber the last election and I think the turnout was only like 26 % voter turnout. If you don't Vote please do not complain.
Posted by glarson (Gwen Larson) on November 16, 2007 at 3:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Dear Readers,
For your convenience and to enable your comments to all stay together, we’ve set up a separate forum for refugee resettlement. Click http://www.emporiagazette.com/forums/ope...
Gwen Larson
Managing Editor
larson@emporiagazette.com