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Chris James of Wiscasset served in the U.S. Army and graduated from the University of Maine at Augusta.
Maine has long been a place where people seek safety, opportunity, and a brighter future. For generations, immigrants have come here, just as so many of our ancestors did, seeking a chance to build a life and contribute to their communities. They’ve worked in our mills, fished our waters, started businesses, and served in our military.
As a proud Mainer and U.S. veteran, I firmly believe that every individual is entitled to fairness, dignity, and justice. These values are not just words; they are principles that have guided our state and helped us navigate difficult times. Maine has often stood for justice on the national stage, whether in the fight to defeat slavery, for civil rights, workers’ rights, or the fair treatment of refugees. That legacy continues today as immigrant families join our communities, working hard for a better future.
Maine’s commitment to justice is deeply rooted in its history. Frederick Douglass, one of the most powerful voices for abolition, spoke in Maine on several occasions, urging Mainers to confront the injustices of slavery. His connection to our state underscores Maine’s broader role in the fight for human rights. Douglass called on Mainers to stay true to their values, just as we are called to do so today.
This commitment persisted throughout history. During the Civil War, Joshua Chamberlain and the 20th Maine helped turn the tide at Gettysburg in the fight against slavery. Gerald Talbot, Maine’s first Black legislator, tirelessly advocated for civil rights, leading efforts to combat racial discrimination. Frances Perkins, who resided in Maine, was the driving force behind the New Deal. More recently, Mary Bonauto, a longtime Mainer, played a pivotal role in securing marriage equality nationwide. These pivotal moments exemplify Maine’s enduring dedication to justice, where every individual’s dignity is respected.
Now, we are being tested again. Across the country and here in Maine, political division and anti-immigrant rhetoric are creating real challenges for families who seek the same security and opportunities our ancestors once sought. We must not let such hate define us.
The barriers facing immigrants continue to grow, making legal support and advocacy more critical than ever. Families are struggling to navigate an increasingly complex legal system, uncertain about their future and experiencing outright hostility. Silence in the face of injustice only allows it to grow. Now, more than ever, we must stand up and support those in need.
Gov. Janet Mills has taken significant steps to support Maine’s immigrant communities, including the recent creation of the Office of New Americans. Her administration has also refused to support efforts to cut MaineCare, deny asylum seekers assistance, or back restrictive federal immigration policies in court. Just last week, when pressured to roll back other protections in Maine, she stood firm, reaffirming her commitment to keeping Maine a welcoming place for all.
Immigrants strengthen our communities, bring diverse perspectives, and contribute to the rich cultural fabric of our state. When our communities are stronger, Maine is stronger. When we uphold fairness and justice, we reinforce the values that make this state a place we’re proud to call home.
This is not just a political issue. It’s about people. It’s about recognizing that Maine’s history is one of inclusion, resilience, and a commitment to doing what’s right even when it’s difficult.
Immigrants are not newcomers to Maine’s story; they have always been part of it. And now, as forces seek to divide us, we must make a choice: Will we stand by and let fear and misinformation take hold, or will we continue Maine’s long tradition of welcoming those who seek a better life?
We all have a role to play in ensuring Maine remains a place of fairness and opportunity. That means supporting organizations like the Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project, pushing back against harmful rhetoric, and simply taking the time to listen and learn from those who have made the difficult journey to call Maine home.