Refugees Welcome In Howard County: Executive Calvin Ball

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — In a letter sent recently to U.S. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo, Howard County Executive Calvin Ball affirmed the county's position that it would accept refugees in the county. The federal government is seeking locations to resettle refugees through a State Department resettlement program.

Cities, counties and states across America were required by Executive Order 13888 issued by President Donald Trump last year to decide whether to continue allowing refugee resettlement within their jurisdictions.

“The president’s attempt to keep states and local communities from resettling refugees does not align with Howard County ideals of diversity and inclusion. Howard County is, and will continue to be, and place where diversity is celebrated and embraced,” Ball said in a statement. "Howard County is dedicated to our principles of diversity and inclusion, and committed to welcoming refugees and asylum seekers with open arms as they settle into new communities. This country has long been welcoming to 'your tired, your poor, your huddled masses,' and should not exclude individuals fleeing war, persecution and humanitarian crises."

Ball wrote that refugees are an "integral and engaged" part of the country and community. They support the economy and are valued, he noted.

"Our vibrant culture and economy are a result of the many immigrants and refugees who have made Howard County their home. With more than 64,000 foreign-born residents, Howard County is dedicated to creating the best quality of life for all of our residents, and we will continue to include refugees among them. Refugees are a vital part of our past, present and future," he wrote.

Ball’s statement comes after Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan issued a similar declaration.