I disagree with Coun. Scott Anderson’s attempt to prevent Vernon council from helping refugees who live in the city.
I am helping the refugees to learn English and I realize that it is essential for local government, as well as volunteer groups and individuals, to offer the refugees assistance in order for them to become contributing members of our society.
The refugees have a lot to offer Canada but they need a little extra help right now.
Canada has a long history of offering help to refugees.
More than 200 years ago, the United Empire Loyalists, escaping political persecution in the U.S., came to Canada as refugees and were given land to settle.
Many groups of refugees have been welcomed by Canada since then.
Our country is richer, more diverse and better thanks to Canada helping refugees when they arrive in our country.
Lorne Anderson, Vernon
