Niagara University is observing its Vincentian heritage this week. Saint Vincent de Paul, a 17th century French priest, was best known for his devotion to helping those most in need. Wednesday, Niagara staged a panel discussion to explore a timely social topic from a Vincentian perspective by delving into the immigration issue.
The story filled our airwaves earlier this year. Thousands of children from Central and South America were seeking refuge in the United States. It sparked a national debate. On one side, people who argued for secure borders and a crackdown on what they see as illegal immigration. On the other side, those who say these children should be welcomed and cared for.
Niagara Philosophy Professor James Delaney admits this is a polarizing issue.
"Niagara is a Vincentian institution. What we take to heart is St. Vincent de Paul's message of really seeing the dignity of every human person," Delaney said. "There are certainly important political and legal issues that we need to take seriously. But what we want to take seriously even more is that the people affected are real people with real dignity, in need of real respect and help."
Delaney says their goal was not to sway people one way or the other but to get them thinking about the immigration issue more deeply and critically.
