Press Room
Letter to the Akron Beacon Journal
29 January 2004
The Akron Beacon Journal
To the Editor:
Thank you for Laura Ofobike's perceptive critique of the international student tracking system that is now being put into effect ("Collateral damage of terror," January 28). Ms. Ofobike captures what so many policy makers miss: The most self-defeating actions we can take in response to September 11 are those which, in the name of security, would undercut America's status as a beacon for the world. That is precisely what we will do if we end the opportunity for thousands of international students to come to the United States and discover they can be something they never imagined. A wise anti-terrorism policy would seek to promote such opportunities, not regiment them out of existence. We can be safer, and still let our light shine. Indeed, that is ultimately the only way we can be safe.
Sincerely,
Victor C. Johnson
Associate Executive Director, Public Policy
NAFSA: Association of International Educators
The Akron Beacon Journal
To the Editor:
Thank you for Laura Ofobike's perceptive critique of the international student tracking system that is now being put into effect ("Collateral damage of terror," January 28). Ms. Ofobike captures what so many policy makers miss: The most self-defeating actions we can take in response to September 11 are those which, in the name of security, would undercut America's status as a beacon for the world. That is precisely what we will do if we end the opportunity for thousands of international students to come to the United States and discover they can be something they never imagined. A wise anti-terrorism policy would seek to promote such opportunities, not regiment them out of existence. We can be safer, and still let our light shine. Indeed, that is ultimately the only way we can be safe.
Sincerely,
Victor C. Johnson
Associate Executive Director, Public Policy
NAFSA: Association of International Educators
