To the Editor:
In your article regarding refugees and asylum seekers in Israel from African countries such as Sudan, JTA refers to these individuals as "illegal migrants." I am ashamed and disheartened by your use of this unwarranted term. The people of whom you speak are refugees and asylum seekers, fleeing war and violence in their countries.
Jews know all too well about fleeing for those and other reasons, and we would be the first ones to protest if Jews fleeing for those reasons were called "illegal." Welcome the stranger in your midst — sound familiar?
I am aware of the difficulty of absorbing refugees, in particular a non-Jewish people. We need to find creative and humane solutions, not racism, hatred and violence against innocents.
Eva Seligman-Kennard
San Anselmo, Calif.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
