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Afghan refugees are welcome in the Beehive State

Aug 18, 2021, 8:33 AM

Afghan refugees welcome in Utah, crowded afghanistan flight...

Afghan citizens pack inside a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III, as they are transported from Hamid Karzai International Airport in Afghanistan, Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021. The Taliban on Sunday swept into Kabul, the Afghan capital, after capturing most of Afghanistan. (Capt. Chris Herbert/U.S. Air Force via AP)

(Capt. Chris Herbert/U.S. Air Force via AP)

SALT LAKE CITY —  Afghan refugees are welcome in Utah. A letter to the White House from Governor Spencer Cox expressed this sentiment. 

The letter is addressed to President Joseph R. Biden. Governor Cox admits Utah has no direct role in shaping U.S. diplomatic or military policy but are willing to help.

Afghan refugees are welcome in Utah

The Governor explains Utah’s history. “As you may already know, Utah’s history guides our approach to refugees. Our state was settled by refugees fleeing religious persecution 170 years ago.”

In the letter Cox said, “we have a long history of welcoming refugees from around the world.”

Utah Governor wants to help

Governor Cox expressed a desire to especially help Afghans. Especially those who helped U.S. troops, diplomats and journalists during the twenty year war. 

“We are eager to continue that practice and assist with the resettlement of individuals and families fleeing Afghanistan,” Governor Cox said. 

Utah’s Governor ended the letter asking President Biden to advise Utah “in the coming days and weeks how we can assist.”

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Afghan refugees are welcome in the Beehive State