Letters to the Editor | Jan. 8, 2025

I am so grateful to Luis F. Carrasco and Sabrina Vourvoulias for sharing their thoughts on what the future may hold for immigration under Donald Trump, and to The Inquirer for providing space for these informative reflections. For over 40 years I have worked with the immigrant community in New Jersey. Among them, I have never met a murderer, rapist, or drug dealer. They have not poisoned our society but enriched it with their presence and work ethic as they support our food, housekeeping, landscaping, and construction industries.

I want to encourage everyone to read Sunday’s In Conversation feature and all New Jerseyans to contact their state legislators to support the Immigrant Trust Act, which codifies and expands the values of the Immigrant Trust Directive of 2018. It allows immigrants to seek help from police, schools, hospitals, and other state offices without fear that their information will be shared with ICE. All of us, regardless of party affiliation, can demonstrate empathy for those who have lived among us for years, have no criminal record, and who contribute so generously to our society. Is crossing the border without authorization the only crime for which there is no plea or pardon?

Sister Veronica Roche, Somers Point

I write to express my deep sorrow over the tragic attack in New Orleans and to categorically condemn such acts of violence, which are wholly inconsistent with the teachings of Islam. It is imperative to clarify that Islam, at its core, upholds peace, justice, and the sanctity of human life. The Quran unequivocally states: “Whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land — it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one — it is as if he had saved mankind entirely” (5:32). This verse underscores the sanctity of life and emphasizes the gravity of harming others.

Furthermore, Islam forbids all forms of terrorism and violence. The Quran commands Muslims to act justly and compassionately, even toward those who oppose them: “And do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness” (5:8). Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) consistently emphasized mercy and kindness, teaching that harming innocent people or causing fear in society is a grave sin. He said: “Whoever harms others, God will harm him; and whoever shows hostility, God will show hostility toward him” (Sunan Abu Dawood).

Acts of terror, such as the New Orleans attack, are blatant violations of these principles. They neither represent the teachings of Islam nor the majority of Muslims who strive for peace and harmony. It is crucial to distinguish the actions of individuals from the values of a faith that promotes coexistence and love for humanity. In these challenging times, let us collectively work toward eradicating the roots of violence and fostering mutual understanding among all communities.

Madeel Abdullah, Garnet Valley, madeel1@gmail.com

One might wish the attack in New Orleans was an isolated incident by a religious extremist, but that’s not our history. The belief in a god or a creator or a supreme being or some magical guy in the sky has been a problem for centuries. Over that span of time, my-god-is-better-than-your-god wars have resulted in millions of deaths and the decimation of indigenous populations. In this regard, Christians have the most blood on their hands, yet many continue in the belief they are the only ones with the answer. It seems many of us prefer to believe in a supernatural force, so we still trust in God or think natural disasters are acts of God — apparently as punishment for living in a flood plain or in an active seismic zone. Of all the animals on Earth, humans are the cruelest. Look at how we treat each other and the other animals of the world.

G. Walker, Collegeville

Feathers fall from the sky, a man sneezes

Another pandemic of bird flu diseases

The wannabe king

Changed the tune he did sing

And focused on H-1B visas

Andrew Winters, Millersville, Pa.

I applaud Mayor Cherelle L. Parker and City Council for their investment in youth sports. It is unprecedented and visionary. I am encouraged by the decision to provide the Philadelphia Youth Sports Collaborative with funding to support community-based sports groups. I am heartened by the allocation of money to Parks and Recreation to restock essential athletic supplies. These are great starts.

Moving forward, I urge all those involved in distributing youth sports funds to do two things: 1) Cast a wide net. Philadelphia is rich with locally and nationally esteemed youth sports programs offering a multitude of athletic options. Many are housed in city recreation centers and schools. We are much more than just tackle football and cheerleading, and youth sports funding should reflect this reality. 2) Listen to the experts. Our city is filled with individuals who have lived and breathed this work for years, if not decades. Some manage organizations that have received national awards and recognition for their service to youth. Some are local legends who have nurtured and guided generations of young people in their corners of the city. Many are the products of quality youth sports programs and want to ensure future generations can have the same experiences. Invite them to share their wisdom and insight about what constitutes a positive youth sports experience so we can ensure our city’s precious resources go to youth sports programs that are truly making our city a healthier, safer, more equitable place.

Amos Huron, executive director, Anderson Monarchs youth sports program

Since the first police department was formed in 1845, thousands of men and women have taken the oath to protect and serve. Every day, these brave people put on their uniforms and say goodbye to their loved ones without the certainty they’ll return. No matter the circumstance, police officers continuously strive to uphold their vow to protect others. Jan. 9 marks National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. Since 2015, the date has given the public a chance to show its gratitude to the over 900,000 law enforcement officers in our nation. We invite you to support those who protect our cities and towns.

A thank you can take many forms: Share a positive story about the role of police in your community, replace a porch light with a blue lightbulb, post on social media using #BackTheBlue or #LawEnforcementAppreciationDay, or send thank you cards to your local department. These are just a few ideas. There are many ways to show your gratitude to those who bravely serve. The easiest is to simply thank an officer in person; a warm smile and kind words speak volumes. When you see law enforcement personnel in your lives, walk up to them and start a conversation. After all, officers risk their lives to protect ours — showing our gratitude is the least we can do. On behalf of Pennsylvania’s law enforcement, thank you for your support.

Joseph Regan, president, Fraternal Order of Police, Pennsylvania State Lodge

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