June 20th is the Annual World Refugee Day. This year's theme is "1 is too many."
1 family forced to flee their home country is too many.
1 child growing up in a refugee camp is too many.
1 refugee without hope is too many.
You hear about refugees, but do you know much do you really know about them?
Do you know the difference between an immigrant and a refugee; a refugee and an asylum seeker? Why do people flee their home countries? What is the process to become a refugee?
These are important questions and it is important that we educate ourselves and welcome the refugees in our communities. You may pass them on the street and notice that they look different but are you aware of what they may have been through?
Take this quick quiz to test your knowledge!
Being a Refugee
Storytelling Through the Eyes of Refugees: Sahar's Story
There are many things we can do to help welcome the refugees in our community.
Volunteer with a local refugee resettlement agency or any agency that works with refugees. Chances are they could use your help in orienting the newcomers to the United States whether it is
-making sure their new apartments are set up
-helping teach English
-helping them navigate via public transit or
-simply being a friend.
Find ways to get involved in your local refugee community!
Additional resources:
Bridging Refugee Youth & Children's Services: Refugee 101
UN Refugee Agency's "Do One Thing" 2011 Campaign
U.S. Office of Refugee Resettlement
Mosaic Family Services
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