Beth Benham

I am a white 64 year old US Citizen who has lived in NH all but 6 years of my life. I went to NH schools and UNH - twice! Until I went to UNH, I had never met anyone from another country, and almost no people of color. This really limited my experience and understanding of the world and its people, as it did for all my peers for generations! NH is still not a very diverse state overall, but it has come a long way since my school days and I very much appreciate that. As an RN of 30+ years, I've had many patients now who are from all over the world and they have added a deep richness to my life and my nursing practice. I've had the chance to see how much they add to the quality of life here in NH. From scientists to caregivers to hard working laborers, they have enhanced the diversity of our population in the best kind of ways and I support making it easier, not harder for migrants to settle in NH. Therefore I oppose this bill and ask that you do the same.