Is fear-mongering worth the risk?

Dear Governor Rauner,

Americans take risks every day. When we get on a plane, when we consume alcohol, when we order an egg sunny-side-up, when we invest in the stock market, when we go on a blind date, when we text and drive. Some risks are obviously greater than others, but when we choose to take these risks, it's because, whether right or wrong, we feel it's worth it in the moment.

Now is the moment where taking action is not only worth it, but is the right and humane thing to do. Your insinuation that the risk of welcoming refugees into our state and our country is too great for Americans is insulting and appalling. As an American, and as a constituent of Illinois, I, for one, am willing to take the risk.

To reject these refugees, and also, by the way, to deport millions of people on their way to becoming U.S. citizens, is to give into fear. It's to pit humans against each other, to make us fear one another, to propagate racism and religious discrimination, and to close the door of freedom and opportunity that brought us and our families to this country generations ago.

This is not a political issue. It is not a national security issue. It is a moral issue. If we are truly this concerned about the minute risk that this issue brings with it, then we, as a nation, have lost our sense of humanity, compassion, and Christian principles.

I urge you to consider the consequences of your own actions, Governor. By promoting this culture of fear-mongering and hatred, you too take a risk. Is it worth it?

Sara Sitzer

Elgin