Maine’s great opportunity 

By Rosamour 

Maine is currently facing the arrival of an unprecedented number of immigrants. They come mostly from sub-Saharan Africa. After a difficult crossing through Central America, where they take many risks, they seek refuge in this territory of Uncle Sam. It is sad to see that the social services in Portland are overwhelmed by the number of people needing health care, school admissions, and supports for children, and so much more – with housing being the main issue right now. 

Believe me, those who are arriving in Maine are profoundly grateful to find safety. Families who accept the risk of undertaking this long and dangerous journey had no other choice but to seek refuge elsewhere, far from their oppressors, far from the injustices and greed of their leaders. People do not make a journey like these people have made unless they had to do so to survive. 

  We give thanks to God for their safe arrival in this country. Peace is not yet theirs, but I know that everything is being done to ensure humane treatment for all these families. The conditions of their accommodation at the Expo and other shelters might not be ideal, but it is much better than living on the street. Families need patience. They must make an effort to integrate well and learn the rules and laws of this country. They need to learn English, and ask for help in navigating this new life – a better day is coming. 

  This is a terrific opportunity for families to start over and heal from their trauma. It is also an opportunity for Maine to gain from all the skills that the newcomers are bringing. We just need a simple system to allow those skills to be used. It might seem too much on the state’s plate right now to welcome so many new people, but what we have before us is the makings of an incredible workforce. 

 
Rosamour lives, works, and pay taxes in Maine. She arrived as an asylum seeker several years ago.