The VFW in Glasgow was the site of a heated public meeting on July 18th, organized by a Facebook group led by residents Ernie Wagoner and Royce Bunch.
These “Freedom of Speech” meetings are designed to provide a platform for citizens to voice concerns that may not be addressed in official public forums. This particular gathering focused on the contentious issue of relocating 30 refugees into the Glasgow area.
Bunch began the meeting by reminding those present that there was no need for political speech, nor would boorish behavior be tolerated, he also explained that members wishing to speak would be allotted five minutes to make their case, or should they finish early, could give their remaining time to a person of their choosing.
After introducing those present Bunch took a moment to play a version of “God Bless the U.S.A.” which aroused a couple of voices from attendees singing along.
Since June, the topic of refugee relocation has stirred significant debate among locals. Concerns ranged from the amount of money refugees receive, a one-time payment of $1,300, to the vetting process, which has been confirmed as thorough.
Representative for Refuge Bowling Green Matthew Stevens was the first to speak, beginning by sharing his family’s history, legitimizing his answers in regard to the relocation, not as an outsider but a local himself. Stevens maintained many of the answers he has given before at his public appearances.
Former Barren County Judge Executive David Dickerson emerged as a prominent voice in opposition, expressing fears rooted in the uncertainty surrounding the relocation effort, most of the same points had been brought up previously at the July 8th Barren County Fiscal Court meeting.
The meeting reached a boiling point during an exchange between Dickerson and Matthew Stevens, a representative from Refuge Bowling Green.
Dickerson and his supporters’ persistent inquiries about the refugees’ housing and employment were shut down due to privacy concerns. Stevens explained that to give or get this information would be a violation of the fourth amendment, which reads:
Stevens also addressed a concern that the churches supporting the endeavor have remained quiet on their role as to not draw the ire of concerned residents.
A particularly heated moment occurred when Dickerson demanded binary answers about the refugees’ ethnicity.
When Stevens attempted to provide a more nuanced response, Dickerson accused him of obfuscation and abruptly left the meeting, accompanied by several supporters.
Before departing, Dickerson thanked the VFW and explained his early exit was due to Stevens being a “Master of the filibuster.”
In stark contrast, Eric Milledge, VFW Quartermaster, spoke in favor of the refugees. Drawing on his experiences in countries that refugees commonly flee, Milledge expressed deep sympathy for their struggles. He emphasized that those who go through proper channels for relocation should be welcomed with open arms and supported by the community.
During a June 24th meeting, Mayor Henry Royse and Glasgow Police Chief Guy Howie addressed the misinformation surrounding the refugee program. They clarified that the city has no control over the arrival of refugees and that the refugees have been thoroughly vetted by the U.S. government.
Stevens and co-founder of the nonprofit Daniel Tarnagda explained that the program aims to help 30 individuals from Colombia, Guatemala, Honduras, or Nicaragua settle in Glasgow by September 30th.
Refuge Bowling Green provides comprehensive services, including English classes, childcare, driving instruction, and employment assistance, to help refugees integrate smoothly. At the June meeting, Stevens assured that the refugees would be self-sufficient, contributing members of the community, while Chief Howie emphasized his comfort with the program due to the support system in place for the refugees.
The meeting at the VFW highlighted the deep divisions within the Glasgow community regarding the refugee relocation plan. While concerns about financial support and vetting processes fueled heated exchanges, voices like Milledge’s emphasized empathy and support for those seeking new beginnings.
The ongoing debates underscore the need for informed discussions and community involvement in shaping the future of the relocation effort.
