On November 15, according to the Detroit Free Press, "Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder says he is suspending efforts to bring Syrian refugees to Michigan in light of the deadly terrorist attacks in Paris on Friday."

The article quoted Gov. Snyder as saying "Given the terrible situation in Paris, I've directed that we put on hold our efforts to accept new refugees until the U.S. Department of Homeland Security completes a full review of security clearances and procedures."

The State of Michigan has been greatly enriched by the communities of immigrants that have moved to this state, including immigrants from Arab and Muslim nations. It is our responsibility to absorb our fair share of refugees, including those from Syria. Moreover, our state is in a better position to accept such refugees because of the rich diversity within our state - including Arabic-speaking Muslim and Christian communities.

We believe that the actions of ISIS do not represent the 1.5 billion Muslims in the world and should not be used as an excuse to suspend efforts to bring Syrian refugees to Michigan. The terrorist attacks of ISIS in Paris, Beirut and elsewhere are tragic, but they do not diminish our responsibility to the refugees who are themselves fleeing from both ISIS and the Syrian government. 

We ask Gov. Rick Snyder and all the lawmakers of Michigan to reconsider this position and immediately resume efforts to bring Syrian refugees to Michigan.