Here are ways to actually help Syrian refugees

I have seen many of the photographs. I have read the news. I have cringed as I read through tweets about the crisis in Syria, where more than 80 people, including children, died in a chemical gas attack on April 4, and then hated myself for cringing when I should be translating that sorrow and disgust into action. So today, I provide you — by way of researching this myself — ways we can support Syrian refugees.

Donate to groups like Islamic Relief USA. According to its website, Islamic Relief USA provides items such as mattresses, shoes, food and medical help to Syrian refugees in the country and surrounding areas. With the help of monetary donations, Islamic Relief USA not only supports these refugees abroad but also within the U.S., helping them access job training and shelter in a new country.

Read and share stories about refugees and their experiences. If you’re active on social media, share responsible, charitable websites that allow others to donate to people and areas affected by the Syrian crisis. Stay up-to-date on current events with real news sources — try Reuters, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, NPR or The Associated Press if you’re in doubt — and encourage your friends and family to do the same. Set your standard for truth at a high bar by confirming your facts with multiple reputable sources before clicking the “share” button (i.e., don’t accept the words coming straight from our press secretary’s mouth).

Sign petitions supporting refugee resettlement in the U.S. and contact your representatives about anti-Muslim and anti-refugee legislation. Make sure your voice is heard among the officials we have collectively elected to public office; tell them to fight against prejudiced executive policy and discrimination. Refuse to vote for them in the upcoming midterm and general elections if they don’t.

If you’re wondering why you should perform any one or more of these actions, I could give you a list of reasons. Syrian refugees are innocent victims, and we ought to assist those who haven’t provoked attack themselves. The gases used in the attacks were banned by the Chemical Weapons Convention, and thus we should help those affected by this illegal and devastating weaponry.

These refugees, stateless as a result of years of civil war, are particularly vulnerable in ways similar to the Jewish people in the years leading to and during the Holocaust: Stripped of their identities, their nationalities and their homes, Syrian refugees are shunned and turned away at the doors of countries who label them as problematic, criminal or dangerous. Perhaps the ultimate causes and consequences of this comparison is the subject of another column. The underlying message, however, holds true: We should not stand idly by and allow history to repeat itself with only the names changed.

I don’t care what reason you choose in supporting Syrian refugees; you should just do it.

Do it for the common humanity that we share and for the pain these families are suffering at the hands of dictatorship and brutal warfare. And, of course, if you have other ways to help, share them. Add to my list. We cannot look away.

Mia Gettenberg is a UF criminology and law and philosophy junior. Her column appears on Mondays.