Western Reader
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has activated the National Guard in response to an escalating migrant crisis. The state is overwhelmed by the number of migrants arriving, leading to a strain on resources and sparking protests.
This situation in Massachusetts reflects the larger national crisis. Given the overwhelming situation, state officials have had to call in the National Guard for assistance.
On Thursday, 250 National Guard members were mobilized to transport the latest wave of asylum seekers to shelters across the state.
You get what you vote for. https://t.co/8ppLtQjjrS
— James Woods (@RealJamesWoods) September 1, 2023
However, the state’s efforts are hindered by a lack of housing and resources. Non-profit organizations, which have been crucial in providing aid, are stretched thin.
State Senator Jamie Eldridge told CBS News, “Right now, the non-profits that are in Massachusetts are stretched so thin they cannot provide any more staff.”
While the National Guard can contribute to the manpower, it does not address the housing shortage. The state’s plan to create new shelters has been met with strong opposition from local residents.
At the Yarmouth Resort motel, where the state intends to set aside 100 units for migrant families, dozens of protesters gathered. They argue that the state is prioritizing migrants over its own homeless residents, including veterans.
The sentiment expressed by the protesters highlights the growing frustration among locals who feel that their needs are being ignored in favor of migrants.
If they had sent the national guard to the border they wouldn’t need them in Massachusetts.
As I recall, Massachusetts voted for Democrats who REFUSED to support the wall and allowed their cities to get FLOODED with illegal immigrants😳😳😳
— Chad Prather (@WatchChad) September 4, 2023
Despite the opposition, the state is continuing its search for solutions.
The Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities stated, “The administration is exploring all options to expand family shelter capacity to meet rising demand.” However, with an estimated 20,000 people currently residing in state shelters, the task is challenging.
The crisis in Massachusetts mirrors the struggle faced by New York City, which has also experienced a significant influx of migrants. Last week, 400 people gathered in Staten Island to protest the conversion of a closed Catholic school into a makeshift shelter.
This situation raises concerns about the Biden administration’s handling of the migrant crisis.
As former Governor Paterson pointed out, this is a self-inflicted wound. It’s clear that the current policies are not sustainable and are putting significant strain on states like Massachusetts.
This article appeared in Mainstpress and has been published here with permission.
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