Area reps decry foul language against immigrants

Local congressmen decried statements attributed to President Donald Trump in which he was reported as using disparaging language to describe nations in Africa and other nations.

In a meeting to discuss the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, the president reportedly asked why the United States would accept more immigrants from Haiti and countries in Africa, which he allegedly described as “s---hole” countries. In a tweet Friday, he denied using that term.

Whether he did or not, local congressmen spoke to the inappropriateness of such language.

“If accurate as reported, the president’s words were offensive, divisive, unproductive and unbecoming of the office,” U.S. Rep. Patrick Meehan, R-7, of Chadds Ford said. “They come at a time when important negotiations on immigration issues are at a critical point. It’s possible to fight for principles without resorting to hurtful rhetoric.”

U.S. Rep. Ryan Costello, R-6, of West Goshen, referenced the work that his wife and her family have done in Haiti.

“For decades, my wife and her family have done missionary work in Haiti,” he said. “I’ve always been impressed and inspired by the stories they have shared with me about their experience of service, grounded in faith, and the commonalities we all share as human beings.”

He continued, “As Americans, we have a proud history of advancing economic, educational and personal opportunity for millions of people around the globe, and as a country, we should recognize the countless contributions and positive impact immigrants have made on our country.”

The congressmen spoke to the value of all human beings.

“Our country is a nation of immigrants, and we should appreciate and value what each person brings to this country,” he said. “We should take pride in the fact that most of us have passed down the stories of our families traveling from somewhere else in pursuit of the American Dream.”

Ryan talked about his own heritage.

“I’m proud to be the descendant of Irish, Italian and German immigrants who sought a better life in the United States,” he said.

And, he also said Trump’s comments, if true, were improper.

“I believe it is inappropriate, unfortunate and offensive that the President of the United States reportedly said what he did,” Costello said. “I hope he clarifies what was said, apologizes and focuses on addressing the immigration-related issues for which many of us are seeking bipartisan solutions.”

U.S. Rep. Bob Brady, D-1, of Philadelphia denounced the remarks.

“I strongly condemn the racist comments made by Donald Trump,” he said. “The comments were classless, un American and beneath the dignity of his office.”

He also spoke to his lineage.

“I am the son of immigrants,” he said. “My family came to America as immigrants from Ireland and Italy and they were welcomed in spite of their humble beginnings. But, as a nation of mostly immigrants sometimes after we become proud Americans and find success, we forget that most came here ‘tired and weary’ with little more than the hope to live the American dream.”

Brady said the president should recognize this.

“It is vitally important that President Trump, whose father came here as an immigrant, clearly understands that we the American people representing every creed, color and religion will not allow him to close the door to our nation based upon his personal prejudices and ignorance of the world.”

“If accurate as reported, the president’s words were offensive, divisive, unproductive and unbecoming of the office.”

— U.S. Rep. Patrick Meehan, R-7, of Chadds Ford