Dueling Vermont Rallies Show Concern for, Support of Syrian Refugees

The rallies were held Friday on the Statehouse lawn

Vermonters opposed to bringing Syrian refugees to the state and those in favor of offering refuge are holding dueling rallies on the Statehouse lawn.

About a half-dozen people opposed to bringing Syrians to the state were at the Statehouse on Friday while about 40 people supported the possibility of bringing refugees to Vermont.

Earlier this week, Gov. Peter Shumlin said Vermont should welcome Syrian refugees who have been thoroughly vetted before being allowed to settle in the United States.

Brooke Paige of the town of Washington said he opposes bringing Syrians to Vermont due to concerns over security and the economic implications of bringing them here.

Bronwyn Fryer of Montpelier said she favors bringing refugees to Vermont and attended the rally to "stand against ignorance and for compassion."

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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