Obama’s Thanksgiving Day Address: Syrian Refugees Are America’s Modern-Day Pilgrims

11.26.2015 | News | Daily Surge |

President Obama told Americans that Syrian refugees were just like the pilgrims who came to America on the Mayflower during his Thanksgiving address Thursday morning.

“In 1620, a small band of pilgrims came to this continent, refugees who had fled persecution and violence in their native land,” Obama said. “Nearly 400 years later, we remember their part in the American story – and we honor the men and women who helped them in their time of need.”

Obama advised Americans be mindful that historically “we turn Lady Liberty’s light to the world” especially refugees who were evading the persecution of ISIS.

“Nearly four centuries after the Mayflower set sail, the world is still full of pilgrims – men and women who want nothing more than the chance for a safer, better future for themselves and their families,” he continued. “What makes America America is that we offer that chance.”

The president went on to say he is touched by letters sent to him by supporters of his plan to allow 10,000 Syrian refugees into the country.

“Nearly four centuries after the Mayflower set sail, the world is still full of pilgrims — men and women who want nothing more than the chance for a safer, better future for themselves and their families,” he continued.

Sixty percent of Americans oppose allowing Syrian refugees asylum in wake of the recent terror attacks in Paris, according to a recent poll.