Governor Robert Bentley's announcement to refuse Syrian refugees after the recent attacks in Paris, has prompted the Alabama Coalition for Immigrant Justice to issue a statement saying in part that Syrian refugees shouldn't be blamed for the attack. Immigrant Justice spokesman, Rodrigo Barragan says the organization believes the U.S. has a moral obligation to protect basic human rights. Barragan says the U.S. is a country of immigrants and decisions should not be made out of fear and hate.
Refugee Reaction
Other officials in Alabama have also been reacting to the possibility of Syrian refugees being relocated to the state. WVAS News spoke to Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange Monday morning. The mayor says he understands Governor Bentley's hesitation to welcome refugees. Mayor Strange also worries about the amount of resources that would be required to handle refugees and to provide security to Montgomery citizens.
Lesbian Adoption
A lesbian mother is asking the U.S. Supreme Court to step in after Alabama judges refused to recognize her adoption granted in another state. The woman, know in court filings by her initials V.L. petitioned the high court Monday for review. A Georgia court in 2007 approved her adoption of the three children her partner gave birth to during their relationship. This year, the Alabama Supreme court struck down her visitation rights and ruled the adoption invalid, saying the Georgia court was wrong under state law to grant it. Cathy Sakimura, of the National Center for Lesbian Rights, called the court's action dangerous and said it shows the continued legal challenges for gay and lesbians parents. She said the woman raised the children, ages 10 to 12, since their births.
No Re-election
A Montgomery Republican senator says he will not seek re-election after completing his current term. Senator Dick Brewbaker tells the Montgomery Advertiser that he wanted to honor a pledge to serve just three terms in the Alabama Legislature. His current term ends in 2018.
Hannah Z
The latest tenant to move into the Commerce Street Business incubator is none other than 13-year-old Hannah Walton. The young entrepreneur has been producing hand-made items most of her life and her new store, Hannah Z, is fully stocked with her creations. Walton says this has been her dream since she was three. Walton is selling hand-crafted bowls, clothing, pillows and candles among other merchandise. The store is located at the corner of Commerce and Tallapoosa streets.