I am honored to bring this solidarity message from Women Watch Afrika, Inc. to Georgia refugees and refugees the world over who are not lucky to share this joy with us today.
World refugee day is held every year on June 20. It is a special day when the world takes time to recognize the resilience of forcibly displaced people throughout the world.
While events like this honors the courage, strength and determination of women, men and children who are forced to flee their homeland under threat of persecution, conflict and violence, it is also a time of mixed feelings for us refugees. It is a time that brings back sad memories of our Past, in relation to our Present, and our hope for the Future.
What comes to your mind when you think of refugees? I ask you to take a moment to consider what it would feel like if you were suddenly forced to flee from your home. What would you do? Where would you go? What would you bring? For the most part refugees flee with the clothing on their backs and a few pictures and their culture.
There are more people displaced by violence and conflict on the planet right now than at any time since World War II. The United Nations High Commission for Refugee (UNHCR) says the number of people forcibly displaced, including refugees, asylum-seekers, and internally displaced persons has now reached over 51 million. More than 50 percent of refugees worldwide are women and children.
While you might think refugees, all live in refugee camps, more than two-thirds live in big cities, towns, and villages. Conflict does not discriminate based on education level or social status: refugees come from all walks of life. Some of us were doctors, teachers, nurses, administrators, engineers, scientists, university students, politicians, farmers or small business owners.
In the spirit of World Refugee Day, I salute these incredible individuals of the world who face their uncertain futures boldly and courageously.
Thank you.
Glory A. Kilanko,
Founder & Executive Director
Women Watch Afrika, Inc.
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Join us in celebrating the courage and resilience of refugees June 23, 2018:
As an expert in this field, Women Watch Afrika provides trainings as a consultant on the issue. For more information on training, guidance, consulting services, and/or information on working with immigrant communities contact Glory Kilanko, Founder and Executive Director, Women Watch Afrika, Inc. at 404-759-6419 or womenwatchafrika@gmail.com
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Women Watch Afrika
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Avondale Estates, GA 30002
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