1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

The recent tragic shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, DC has sparked intense debate about our nation's immigration policies. While this incident is deeply concerning, it's crucial that we respond with measured, comprehensive reform rather than reactionary policies that may cause more harm than good. The suspect's background as an Afghan national who entered under the 'Operation Allies Welcome' program highlights the complexity of our immigration system. This program was designed to support those who aided U.S. forces in Afghanistan, reflecting our commitment to our allies. It's important to remember that the actions of one individual do not represent entire communities or the success of such programs overall. I urge you to resist calls for extreme measures such as a "permanent pause" on migration from certain countries or the removal of individuals based on subjective assessments of their value to our nation. Such policies not only lack compassion but also ignore the significant contributions immigrants make to our economy, culture, and society. Instead, I ask that you advocate for comprehensive immigration reform that balances security concerns with our values of inclusivity and opportunity. This should include: 1. Strengthening vetting processes without discriminating against entire nationalities or regions. 2. Providing adequate resources for the integration and support of refugees and asylum seekers. 3. Maintaining programs that honor our commitments to allies who have supported U.S. interests abroad. 4. Addressing root causes of migration through diplomatic and development efforts. Knee-jerk reactions and blanket bans are not only morally questionable but often ineffective. They risk alienating communities vital to our national security and counterterrorism efforts. Let's instead focus on evidence-based policies that enhance our safety while upholding our nation's principles of justice and compassion. I implore you to stand against divisive rhetoric and support immigration policies that reflect the best of American values. Our strength as a nation has always come from our diversity and our ability to integrate newcomers who contribute to our shared prosperity. Let's not let fear guide our policies, but rather wisdom, compassion, and a commitment to our founding ideals.