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Coalition Expresses Opposition to Syrian Refugees Settling in First State

Syrian Refugees
creative commons
Syrian Refugees

A coalition of groups stood in front of Legislative Hall yesterday to hand over a letter to Governor Jack Markell opposing his decision to allow Syrian refugees into the First State.

Karen Gritton, executive director of the group 9-12 Delaware Patriots said that the FBI cannot guarantee an adequate vetting of those coming from the Middle East if they come through some of the embattled countries.

The Concerned Coalition Alliance of Delaware also includes Faith and Freedom Coalition, Central Delaware NAACP and the Frederick Douglass Foundation of Sussex County.

La Mar Gunn, president of the state NAACP’s branch,  said that while he believes in helping people there are plenty in this country that need assistance.

A spokeswoman for Markell said that the governor had not been contacted by the group but noted that settlement of the refugees was a federal matter.

The governor has said he would work with federal official to provide services for Syrian refugees settled in the First State.

Don Rush is the News Director at Delmarva Public Media. An award-winning journalist, Don reports major local issues of the day, from sea level rise, to urban development, to the changing demographics of Delmarva.