Fearmongering has no place in discussions about Syrian refugees

At least 31 of our nation's governors, including our own, need reminding: America cannot lead from a position of fear.

It was inevitable that horrific terrorist attacks in Paris and Beirut last week and an earlier bombing of a Russian jet would spark heightened security discussions worldwide. Sadly, it was perhaps also inevitable that 2016 presidential hopefuls, clamoring for attention in a crowded race, would attempt to make political hay of the fate of the Syrian war refugees already slated for entry into the U.S.

Reasonable discussions about security measures are warranted. But emotional and ill-conceived overreactions by our nation's governors, including Iowa's Terry Branstad, serve no purpose. They protect no one.

Due to their relative proximity to the Middle Eastern war zone, Europe has been inundated by millions of people seeking refuge from Syria, Iraq and other countries.

President Barack Obama affirmed 'America has to step up and do its part” to provide for these vulnerable people. This includes moving forward with an earlier plan to accept up to 10,000 Syrian refugees, up from fewer than 2,000 over the course of this four-year civil war.

Recent terror strikes may shadow, but don't erase the need for our country to share this humanitarian burden with our allies.

Unlike Europe, U.S. officials have an 18-to-24 month entry process in place to scrutinize refugees. A Syrian refugee must pass rigorous screening by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which verifies personal backgrounds and details before making a U.S. resettlement recommendation. Afterward, no fewer than four federal agencies complete their own screening before a refugee is granted entry and protection.

A diligent and thorough process is critical as we accept individuals from such an instable region. But we defy our nation's foundation when we refuse to provide safe haven or incite additional persecution on a basis of faith, geography or fear.

Questioning the veracity of these screenings is warranted, but must be driven by reality, not nonsense.

Cedar Rapids is home to the Mother Mosque of America, the first permanent U.S. structure to be built specifically to serve as a mosque. Those who say Muslims or other refugees cannot or will not harmonize with local communities need look no further than Eastern Iowa.

We know better; this still is the home of the brave.

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