I’M WRITING to you about the treatment of refugees by some politicians and media outlets.

I’m concerned about the growing trend to define people by where they are from, or the way in which they have travelled, rather than simply as human beings.

At home this can lead to the racist scapegoating of people born abroad. On the international level this can lead to policies that fail people who have been forced to leave their homes.

Governments of the world now need to work together to uphold the dignity of the many who don’t yet have a safe place to call home.

I feel like many in Taunton have done just this, worked together to aid and assist refugees. Notably, Refugee Aid from Taunton (RAFT) and Christian Help and Action for Refugees in Somerset (CHARIS).

I am proud to live in a community with two fantastic organizations dedicated to the refugee crisis. I hope that this local action can continue, and Taunton can lead the way in solidarity and support with needy and displaced people.

NICOLE STANFIELD CAILE
Parmin Way
Taunton