Displacement Can Happen to Anyone
Written by Hamed Arian
As mankind, living in this world together, we are all "refugees." Because we are members of the same worldwide family, we should have empathy and solidarity for those who are forced to flee from their home countries because their lives are at risk. Displacement can happen to anyone.
Refugees who have been forced to leave their homelands and cross international boundaries cannot return home safely. Many have spent their whole lives struggling for their rights to live in peace. They did not choose to be refugees but were forced to seek asylum in other countries. As a worldwide family, they should be respected and welcomed to new homes and expected to contribute to the good of all in return.
I am honored to work with Their Story is Our Story: Giving Voice to Refugees (TSOS) as a translator and refugee coordinator and help them tell the stories of refugees to the world. I help them because I am a refugee and had to flee from my home country with my family to survive!
I am committed to work with TSOS, to stand with them and help them in as many ways as possible because I know refugees very well and I can feel their pains.
May God bless and protect them all and bring them happiness and peace. (Amen)
Consistent Service Can Expand Understanding
Over the last year we have developed close relationships built on mutual trust with many of the families we help. We know their names, their personal stories, and individual needs. We are fully aware that our donations are only a temporary band aid for a larger problem. A bag of groceries only goes so far, and they will be back the following Saturday for more. Sometimes, though, we can make a bigger impact in someone’s life.
Student Assemblies
Selfies with friends. Shurooq and Sasha enjoy shopping together.
Book Review: All Are Welcome
Suzanne Kaufman’s colorful illustrations are a delightful pair to Alaxandra Penfold’s narrative stating “all are welcome here,” no matter one's appearance or background.