I read the articles regarding a plan to move Portland’s asylum Seekers to Unity, citing using Unity College’s dorms as a living area. I am very perplexed at the idea of moving these new Mainers to such a remote area when suitable housing accommodations can be found right at the Portland Campus, University of Southern Maine.
As an alumnus, I am in touch with university officials and instructors. Many times, the conversation turns to the subject of unfilled new dorms and classrooms. This is a common topic of concern since enrollment — according to the Bangor Daily New — “shows a decline of about 1,000 students.”
During the summer, the Portland campus is a ghost town of empty class buildings, dorms, gym, and dining facility. This would be more than enough space for our asylum seeking families.
Sure, the fall term will mean the return of students; however, USM has some of the greatest minds in Maine. I am sure if a concerted effort was made with classroom scheduling and dorm space they could meet the urgent needs of our newest Mainers.
Seriously, am I the only one who has come up with this simple but yet common sense solution?
Throughout the Black Lives Matter movement, USM Portland carried its banner high — but now, it’s time to either put up, or shut up . . . and I find the silence curiously deafening.
David Oshansky, Auburn
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