Angelina Jolie wrote an op-ed in the “New York Times” about the refugee ban, and we’re all ears
This has been an extremely confusing and stressful few weeks for our country. Donald Trump’s refugee ban and suspension of immigration from seven predominantly Muslim nations has — to put it mildly — caused an international uproar. Many people, including celebrities, have spoken up against the policies.
Most recently, actress and UN Goodwill Ambassador Angelina Jolie’s penned an op-ed for The New York Times on the refugee ban, stating that U.S. refugee policy should be based on facts, not fear — and we’re so on board with this statement.
In the piece, she discusses the realities that refugees actually face in their home countries, explaining that, “far from being terrorists, they are often the victims of terrorism themselves.” She goes on to talk about America’s history of defending the idea that “human rights transcend culture, geography, ethnicity and religion,” encouraging those in power to celebrate our diversity.
"The global refugee crisis and the threat from terrorism make it entirely justifiable that we consider how best to secure our borders. Every government must balance the needs of its citizens with its international responsibilities. But our response must be measured and should be based on facts, not fear," she wrote.
Throughout the op-ed, Jolie’s words are honest about the tough reality of the situation, yet hopeful about a positive outcome. She encourages Americans to uphold the United Nations conventions and values that have been in place since World War II, and to look at the actual sources of terrorism in order to be armed with information.
"Shutting our door to refugees or discriminating among them is not our way, and does not make us safer. Acting out of fear is not our way. Targeting the weakest does not show strength."
via giphyWe’re so glad that people like Jolie are raising their voices on these policies, because the more people who do, the faster we may begin to right our path as a nation.
