Refugees Living In Colorado Support Allowing Syrians In, But With Strict Screening
DENVER (CBS4) - Should Syrian refugees be allowed in the U.S.? The topic is being debated in every corner of the country.
Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper released a statement on the issue: "A few short days ago we witnessed another senseless act of terrorism. Our hearts go out to the families, friends and loved ones of those lost and injured in Paris, and in other acts of terror around the world. Our first priority remains the safety of our residents. We will work with the federal government and Homeland Security to ensure the national verification processes for refugees are as stringent as possible. We can protect our security and provide a place where the world's most vulnerable can rebuild their lives."
CBS4 wanted to know what refugees already living in Colorado think about allowing those fleeing Syria to relocate here. The Jerusalem Market in Denver is owned by a refugee from Libya. He supports the Syrian refugees being allowed to come to Colorado but only after they go through the same kind of strict screening he endured.
"It's nice to help people because they are suffering," said Faraj Elmaragan.
It took Elmaragan four months to relocate to the U.S. He considers that time delay to be absolutely necessary.
Another refugee from Iran talked about his screening. Kiamarz Arabhakry says it was "very tough." It took Arabhakry 11 months to be allowed to enter the U.S. He still worries about allowing large numbers of Syrians in if the U.S. government isn't highly careful.
"If they don't do their job right, I mean the government, there is a possibility that we might have some terrorists coming with them," Arabhakry said.
"Does that worry you?" asked CBS4's Suzanne McCarroll.
"It does," replied Arabhakry.
The owners of the Jerusalem cafe agree strict screening must be mandatory but they say the U.S. must let the Syrians find a safe place to settle here.
"They have no other choice but to escape ISIS. This is the only opportunity that they have," said Said Wahdan, owner of the Jerusalem Café.
Wahdan's adult daughter, Reema Wahdan, agrees but with some added caution.
"I think the United States government should be strict in any type of screening allowing any type of person coming to the United States," she said.
Suzanne McCarroll is a general assignment reporter at CBS4. Her stories can regularly be seen on CBS4 News at 5 p.m., 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. Connect with her on Facebook and follow her on Twitter @SuzanneCBS4.
