Second in a series
Re “Taking a Closer Look at America-loving Refugees”
After the 1970s, many countries and governments collapsed. Some were engaged in civil wars or multiple revolutions. Others battled religious and racist discrimination wars. As usual, millions looked to America as their best hope for rescue, especially as an ideal place to raise their children.
Enriched by a booming economy, Americans became more generous than usual. Political figures who needed additional votes changed their policies. They opened the funds of the country to help all newcomers.
Refugees are more appealing than the regular immigrants who enter the country with already obtained official permission.
For a legal immigrant, a family member has signed the affidavit saying that in case of need, he or she guarantees to help. This group of people brings all their resources. They find jobs and housing while struggling to learn about and to adapt to their new environment. Adjustment takes up to five years to learn how to live here.
The case of the refugee is different.
New immigrants soon hear a common saying: “We made a mistake to apply for green card. Seeing the condition of my sisters, we were stupid not to apply for refugee status. Look at us. We are suffering while they have such a good life, so many advantages, so much help!”
Yes, some eagerly accept the windfall of free gifts. They do not understand the real purpose of the abundance of aid showered on them. It is given to the needy, hoping that soon they will become contributors themselves (and will appreciate all that they have received).
This is how it works: First, stop stations are made in a friendly country that has agreed to temporarily accept them, where refugees are cared for in comfortable housing with their families. Food, dishes and badly needed items are given to them.
The children go to school. Sometimes parents will work, if they want to, while waiting for their papers when they are able to enter the U.S. soil. There is a famous joke that says: “Once you enter American soil, a government agent receives you at the airport, welcoming you with a hot roasted turkey leg in his hand, just waiting for you to open your mouth!”
On a more serious note, the refugees receive $3,000 before their departure to buy the tickets and be able to enter the U.S. It is expected that after they are settled and earning money, they will pay it back in time. Each refugee receives welfare (approximately $3,000 apiece every two months), food stamps, and extra help for their housing. If available, they may enter in Section Eight apartment housing.
(To be continued)
Dr. Rosemary Hartounian Cohen, who lives in the Fairfax District, received her Ph.D in sociology from the Sorbonne in Paris. She lived in two other countries before moving, with her husband and children, to Los Angeles in 1984. She has published four books in America. Since 1985, she has operated Atelier de Paris, an international art business, on Robertson Boulevard. Her email address is Rosemary@atelierdeparis.com
