Stevens’ column ignores facts on immigration problem
This is in response to the Sept. 22 opinion piece in the Naperville Sun by columnist Heidi Stevens, “Lies move us further from our humanity.”
A paraphrased strategy from propagandist Joseph Goebbels in Nazi Germany states, “You accuse those you oppose of the wrongs that you yourself do.” You grab hold of a narrative to beat down your foe, whether it is true or not, regardless of significance, and you repeat it over and over and over.
Heidi Stevens does this for the left as she uses the “canine/feline cuisine” story as a means of deflecting attention from the real issues and the real lies. She does not mention that the small town where this story had originated experienced an unwanted growth of about 50% in population over a short period of time.
And I don’t think Heidi is ignorant to the fact that immigrants who enter our country illegally do contribute to crime and tax our infrastructure. And please keep in mind that everybody I know treasures the inscription at the base of the Statue of Liberty but favors immigration by legal means.
Now for the truth. The Democrats had control for the first two years of the Biden/Harris administration. Did they implement any of the actions on policies of which Harris now disingenuously professes to be a proponent? They both seemed to go out of their way to make things worse, and now Harris hides from the fact that she is a part of the incumbent leadership.
Harris blames the failure to pass an immigration bill on her opponent. Read the bill; it’s terrible. And her opponent does not hold office. Is our current leadership that impotent?
Historically speaking, past actions are a pretty good indicator of future actions. Even factoring in COVID, I find that the previous four years trumps the latter four.
Dave Schwartz, Naperville
Embrace DEI for the enrichment it brings to our community
As we celebrate Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, we have a chance to reflect on the rich histories and contributions of these communities. This month highlights the impact of millions whose heritage spans Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America and South America.
However, this celebration is not just about the past; it’s a call to embrace a future grounded in diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).
In Naperville, more than 10,000 residents, or 6.7% of the population, identify as Latino or Hispanic. This number increases significantly when we include those who work in Naperville, highlighting the broader impact of the Latino and Hispanic communities on our local economy and culture.
As our community diversifies, we must recognize and uplift the cultural wealth these communities bring. Hispanic Heritage Month encourages us to learn about the traditions, values and stories that shape these experiences while ensuring these voices are heard throughout our city’s institutions.
Critics may argue that DEI initiatives are often oversimplified but this underscores the need for a thoughtful, data-driven approach. Rather than avoiding these efforts, we must invest in DEI with purpose, addressing the complexities of inequity while making the benefits of inclusion visible to all. This can dismantle barriers and build a more equitable community.
Supporting DEI initiatives at the city level is essential for fostering long-term change. By advocating for policies and funding that prioritize DEI, we can establish structures that embed these values into the fabric of Naperville’s governance and public life.
Embracing DEI is not just a matter of justice; it enriches everyone. When all residents feel valued, our city becomes stronger. Let’s seize this moment to create a brighter, more inclusive Naperville for all.
Lili Burciaga, Founder and President
Diana Torres Hawken, Founder and Secretary
Alliance of Latinos Motivating Action in the Suburbs (ALMAS)
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