What is World Refugee Day?

World Refugee Day (WRD) shines a light on the rights, needs and dreams of refugees. World Refugee Day Syracuse works to honor the identity, empowerment & liberation of not just refugees but to recognize their humanity and presence along the journey of their rebuilding.

The principle of honoring the humanity in all people comes from the principle of Ubuntu, which means "I am what I am because of who we all are." That's what we’re doing at World Refugee Day Syracuse—bringing together hundreds of people, all people, from across the Syracuse region to celebrate family, culture, savory foods, beautiful and familiar sounds, harrowing achievements, and the sharing of ideas and provisions among a community of immigrants, refugees, neighbors and New Americans.

Each year on 20 June, the world celebrates World Refugee Day, the international day to honor people who have been forced to flee their homes. That story is filled with indelible loss, grief, and trauma but it doesn't have to end with sacrifice. This day is evidence that we can begin again and do so with dignity and honor.