The Flag of Afghanistan was Proudly on Display at a Recent “Vets Support Afghans” Rally in Portland’s Monument Square.

With the evacuation of thousands of refugees from Afghanistan, there is interest in where in the US they will resettle. In that regard, Governor Janet Mills, (D) the first woman Governor of Maine, issued the following statement last week:

“Along with other Republican and Democratic governors, Governor Mills has informed the Biden Administration that Maine is prepared to provide safety and opportunity to Afghanistan refugees who protected American service members and American interests in Afghanistan.  Dong so honors our country’s commitment to stand with those who stood by us.  It also strengthens and diversifies our state by welcoming people who want to put down roots, raise families, work and start businesses here,” she said in a written statement.

Meanwhile non-profits that support the immigration community are meeting and making preparations to welcome members of the Afghanistan community should Maine be fortunate enough to receive any of them.    Mufalo Chitam, Executive Director, of the Maine Immigration Rights Coalition, said recently that she and representatives of other similar non-profits have begun weekly meetings. Their purpose is to come up with strategies on how to support these deserving refugees when they arrive in Maine.

This support begs the question:  where does the city of Portland stand on the resettlement of refugees here? When will  Mayor Kate of Portland issue a statement on our fair city’s commitment to helping these deserving refugees?  As the Mayor of Maine’s largest city, shouldn’t she be out front on the matter?