In my years of speaking French, this phrase has been liberally applied to many scenarios, like when something is difficult, but on ‘se débrouille,’ or when there isn’t enough to go around but still, on ‘se débrouille,’ and when needing help with an onerous task, but left to work alone, ‘on se débrouille.’
In the case of Paul Mwingwa and his family, ‘se débrouiller’ has become their motto of dedication to their own success and integration. When forced to make the difficult decision to flee their home in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, when facing scarce resources in a refugee camp, and very little help in starting over in a new country, speaking a new language, and adapting to a new culture in Montana, Paul and his family ‘se débrouillent’ beautifully. Their story has reminded me of the grit and determination that are the foundations of the best countries, and an example of perseverance in establishing oneself. Working with newcomers is a constant reminder of the potential joy that comes from hard work, accomplishment, friendship, sharing, and self-actualization.”
This was my introduction to Paul Mwingwa’s story. The beginning of our friendship happened last year when I met Paul during Advocacy Days with Montana Legislative Representatives, Jon Tester, Steve Daines, and Matt Rosendale. Paul and I met during our preparation meetings, worked on meeting strategies, and then worked as a team with IRC representatives to present the case for supporting a higher presidential determination number and a faster road to citizenship for new Americans.
Our friendship in Advocacy Days resulted in an invitation to conduct an interview and meet Paul’s amazing wife and three darling daughters. I learned a lot about their family dynamics and personal philosophy of chipping away at every problem of resettlement with the concept of “se debrouiller.” Little by little Paul and his wife have moved their family forward in work, schooling, and integrating into their community. They adapted to the bitter cold and snow of Montana winters and kept working even if it meant walking miles in the snow. They saved and patiently waited for years to build their credit to buy a home (I received the invitation to their house warming party in August). They have ‘Se débrouiller’ for their own integration, then turned their work ethic for helping incoming refugees; knowing the Mwingwa family is a privilege.
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.