During a House Judiciary Committee hearing on Wednesday, emotions ran high as Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN) addressed Angel Families who were present in the audience. These families, who have lost loved ones to crimes committed by undocumented immigrants, were seeking justice and accountability for their tragic losses.
In a heartfelt statement, Rep. Cohen expressed his condolences to the Angel Families, saying “I am sorry for your loss.” However, he also made a thought-provoking point – that Americans are more likely to be murdered by fellow Americans than by illegal aliens.
This statement may seem controversial, but it sheds light on an important issue that often gets overshadowed by the heated debate surrounding immigration. The truth is, violence and crime are not exclusive to any one group of people. It is a problem that affects all communities, regardless of immigration status.
According to statistics from the FBI, in 2018, there were 16,214 reported cases of murder in the United States. Out of those cases, only 6.1% were committed by individuals who were not US citizens. This means that the vast majority of murders in the US are committed by American citizens.
This is not to say that illegal immigration does not pose any security concerns. Of course, there are those who enter the country illegally and engage in criminal activities. However, it is important to put things into perspective and not demonize an entire group of people based on the actions of a few.
Rep. Cohen’s statement also highlights the fact that violence and crime are complex issues that cannot be solved by simply building a wall or implementing stricter immigration policies. These issues stem from a variety of factors, including poverty, mental health, and access to resources and opportunities.
Instead of focusing solely on immigration, we should be looking at ways to address the root causes of violence and crime in our society. This includes investing in education, mental health services, and community programs that promote positive and inclusive environments.
Furthermore, we must not forget that many undocumented immigrants are not criminals, but hardworking individuals who contribute to our economy and communities. They deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, not vilified and demonized.
In his statement, Rep. Cohen also acknowledged the pain and suffering of the Angel Families, and for that, he should be commended. It takes courage to apologize and show empathy to those who have opposing views. It is a step towards healing and finding common ground.
However, it is also important to recognize that no one group has a monopoly on pain and loss. Every day, families all over the country are affected by violence and crime, regardless of immigration status. We must come together as a nation to address these issues and find solutions that benefit everyone.
In conclusion, Rep. Cohen’s statement to the Angel Families may have been a difficult truth to hear, but it is a reminder that we are all human beings, and we are all affected by violence and crime. Let us use this as an opportunity to come together and work towards a safer and more inclusive society for all.
