Family & Home
Panel discussion at Viterbo to deal with help for Afghan refugees
Lots of concern and some suspicion in western Wisconsin, about the thousands of Afghan evacuees brought to Fort McCoy since mid-August.
Tonight, Viterbo hosts a panel discussion about ways that area residents can assist the refugees. It begins at 7 p.m. at the Viterbo Fine Arts Center.
UWL political scientist Anthony Chergosky will be a panelist, and he says acceptance of the refugees appears to be growing.
“When you look at the polls specifically dealing with the Afghan evacuees, what you’re struck by is the bipartisan support for the Afghan evacuees,” says Chergosky. “There’s just been this real outpouring of compassion and support, and we want to try to further that and educate people more.”
Chergosky also believes the vetting of refugees generally has been handled well.
The panel also will feature Lt. Col. Eric Archer, professor of military science at UWL, and Roberto Partarrieu, executive director of Catholic Charities.
Admission is free, but face masks will be required at the Fine Arts Center lobby. A livestream will be available for viewing.