Last week President Trump issued an executive order temporarily banning travel from seven countries that the Obama administration had listed as terrorist breeding grounds. The ban caused chaotic emotional reactions among Americans who saw their country’s ideals not being upheld by the ban of immigrants and refugees.

Within reason, it does need to be acknowledged that there are people who carry out terrorist acts and that must be kept out of the United States. Reasonable screening and evaluation is, therefore, a necessary process for anyone entering the country, especially if coming from a sensitive part of the world.

However, President Trump’s clumsy attempt to be cautious was executed in a frenzy that left many confused, speechless and hopeless. Border control was unsure as to how to execute the block for quite some time and refugee aid groups remain without guidance regarding those already in the pipeline.

As an immigrant, though, what I found even more disturbing was the depersonalization that occurred in the face of potential danger. Theoretically, if a small portion of a larger number of influx could cause harm, it would be make sense to block the influx. The same way, then, if a small percentage of incoming migrants could cause harm, it should make sense to close the borders. What we are dealing with, though, are not merely numbers. They are people who would probably stay in their homelands if they could; people who seek better lives for their families; people who flee death and persecution. Most immigrants are just people who have had the misfortune of being born in difficult territories and who have jumped on the opportunity to better their conditions.

I have no merit for being from a country that was not affected by the ban, yet somehow my place of birth is what makes me a suitable immigrant. I also dare say, no American has merit for being from a well-off country that values freedom, democracy and opportunity. Instead of hogging what was gifted to us, we should use it for the betterment of ourselves and others. In the face of danger should we cower when we were graced with the means to help?

Ignoring potential threats from the Middle East is foolish, but so is reacting solely out of fear with no compassion for the innocent.

Hopefully these next 90 days will resolve orderly and peacefully. In the meantime, there is much we can do for the needy who are already among us and launching hatred at each other will only divide us further.

Letizia Mariani can be reached at mari8259@stthomas.edu