FAIRFIELD — U.S. Rep. John Garamendi’s vote for legislation requiring background checks on Syrian refugees has spurred criticism from an influential Democratic donor and a group that describes itself as the nation’s largest statewide lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization.
Blake Byrne, 80, a retired broadcasting executive in Southern California, wrote a letter to the Los Angeles Times about Garamendi, D-Walnut Grove, and other supporters of the legislation.
“What a disappointment you are to me and all the others who fight for equal rights for our fellow Americans,” Bryne stated.
He has contributed to Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-San Francisco, gay and lesbian organizations and other causes.
The bill passed 289 to 137, with 47 Democrats supporting the legislation.
Rick Zbur, executive director of Equality California, said in a statement that “last week’s vote was a victory for ignorance and fear.”
“We are deeply disappointed that the list of ‘ayes’ included members of California’s congressional delegation, including members who have been champions of LGBT civil rights, and several LGBT members of Congress outside of California,” Zbur said.
Thousands of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people are among the Syrian refugees and they face even harsher cruelties if they were to stay than others who are fleeing unspeakable atrocities, he said.
Garamendi, in a statement about his vote, said he supports America’s role in helping provide safe haven for the refugees from Syria and Iraq who are fleeing the murderous death cult called ISIS – and who have been properly vetted.
He said in part that the congressional bill involves no “pausing or rejecting refugees, no matter how many headlines say otherwise.”
“I saw this vote as an opportunity to assure the American public that we are thoroughly vetting refugees,” the congressman said. “In America, we know who our refugee populations are, and if bringing that knowledge up to the cabinet level in a more systemized way helps prevent overreactions that would stop future refugees altogether, so be it.” “I respect those who disagree with my vote, and I share their desire for our country to remain a shining beacon on the hill,” he added. Garamendi represents the 3rd Congressional District that includes Fairfield, Suisun City and Vacaville.
