Their Story is Our Story Prepares to Give Voice to More Refugees
Written by Twila Bird
My name is Twila Bird; I’m one of the founders of TSOS. I just returned from another trip to Europe in behalf of TSOS (Their Story is Our Story) to help interview refugees trying to find safe places in a world of chaos. Here’s our team as we first gathered last week from our far-flung homes to begin interviewing in Germany, France and Italy.
I’m always a muddle of emotions when I return home from these intense, story-gathering ventures. I feel guilt for returning to comfort after witnessing profound deprivation. I’m angry and frustrated with those who have eyes but don’t see. I despair at how inhumane humans can be. Conversely, I feel tremendous respect for those who endure indignities with dignity and I feel joy as I mingle with those who lift, clothe, feed, and comfort. My hope rises when I see how humane humans can be.
So now our work begins afresh. We’re armed with dozens of new, raw glimpses into the lives of desperate people on the move. We want to show how similar their hopes and dreams are to yours and mine. They want security, dignity, and a place to call home. I can’t cure their woes by myself but I can do something. With other TSOS team members, I can help by posting their stories in the hope that understanding will breed compassion.
Official Statement on the Detention of Refugees and Ongoing Community Violence
With another death in Minnesota and continued violence toward individuals and groups standing up for their communities, we acknowledge the profound fear and uncertainty people are feeling--not just locally, but across the country.
On top of this, there are reports that refugees invited and admitted to our country through the U.S. Refugee Admission Program are now being detained, meaning that our new friends and neighbors feel that fear most acutely.
Refugees have already fled violence and persecution once. They came here legally, seeking safety. In moments like these, we reaffirm our commitment to building communities where refugees and immigrants can live without fear. Where they can go to work, send their children to school, and build lives of dignity and belonging.
We call for due process, accountability, and humanity in all immigration enforcement operations. We call upon our leaders to demand the demilitarization of our neighborhoods and cities. And we call on all of us to continue the work of welcoming and protecting those who have been forcibly displaced from their homes.