June 20th is World Refugee Day.
Every minute, no less than 20 people leave everything behind to escape war, persecution or terror, according to the UN Refugee Agency. In today’s context of refugee crisis, and with the on-going war in Syria, recognition and understanding of the refugee’s struggle is particularly pertinent.
Refugees leave due to “a well-founded fear of persecution because of his/her race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.” They often leave everything they know and own behind. This last-resort decision is only the beginning of an arduous a dangerous journey to reach a new and foreign country.
Soroptimist International of Europe is committed to helping refugees settle into their new lives. Through numerous projects, Soroptimists organise a range of services, from providing language lessons to school supplies to housing.
For example, the SI Club Sigdal, from Norway, set up a meeting place for refugee women to learn the language and be acquainted with Norwegian women. According to the members, “it was natural for our Club to contribute so the women can understand the Norwegian way of living.” They held a meeting once a month, combined with cooking or swimming classes or introducing their new friends to cultural places in the valley of Sigdal. The refugee women also had the opportunity to share their story and tell the Club members how they came to Norway.
The SI Club Valle D’Aosta, in Italy, organised a day of reflection on refugees. Alessandra Morelli, a UNHCR delegate, was invited to describe her experience working in high-risk areas. Then a short documentary on Syrian artists, “Torn”, by A. Gassman, UNHCR Refugee Goodwill Ambassador, was screened. The documentary showed the resilience of these refugees in Jordan and Lebanon that do not consider themselves as victims, even if torn from their lands. Both high school students and the public walked away more informed about the current refugee situation and its causes.
Soroptimist International of Europe invites you to use this day as a moment of reflection on what your Club or Union can do to help support refugees.
For more information, please visit the UNCHR website.