Resettled Life after Refugee Camps
Written by Kristi Burton
One chilly morning last October, I enjoyed the day I spent photographing father and son, Akhtar and Kamil. Behind my lens, I captured their day from beginning to end. I was touched by their faith and courage in spite of all they have been through.
An expert craftsman in marble and granite, Akhtar had a successful business in Damascus. His five stores and home were completely destroyed by bombs. He lost so much. After living in a couple refugee camps, Akhtar took his son, Kamil, and made the difficult journey to Germany, where they were able to find work, first as apprentices in a stone quarry (though they are already masters of the trade). They are pleased to be able to use their specialized skills in their new country.
Although discouraged that their family is still in a camp in Lebanon, they hope to reunite with them soon. I was so impressed with how they are making the most out of their current circumstances.
This is a day in their life.
Slam the Islamophobia
The Emerald Project is a Utah-based organization that carefully designs dialogues to engage with non-Muslims to make Salt Lake Valley a more welcoming home to Muslims. As many of our refugee friends belong to the Muslim faith, we applaud opportunities that foster understanding and were pleased to support The Emerald Project’s 3rd annual “Slam the Islamophobia” event on February 15th.
Invisible Barriers and Battles: The Mental Health Impact on Refugees
Refugees often risk their lives crossing deserts, jungles, and oceans all in the search for shelter, freedom, or happiness. Yet, even once they’ve reached physical safety, mental mountains emerge that make daily life an uphill climb. At the November 2022 conference for the Utah Chapter of the Society for Public Health Education (USOPHE), presenters Shurooq Al Jewari and Sasha Sloan discussed mental health and inclusion, focusing on immigrants and refugees.
Reclaiming Lost Traditions
Holidays are an important time to include newcomers. Newcomers are often aching for the traditions and holiday magic they knew at home - and the connections with family and friends. The Garcias* came from a strong family and community that knew generous and giving holiday traditions. I knew, when I met our new friends from Venezuela, the rich bond we would have; this was a kindred spirit family. Even though we have been bad at communicating (Google Translate is such a false hope), it was easy to find connections that helped us love each other.