We continue to watch the unprovoked attack on Ukraine with deep sadness and horror. In the first week alone, over one million people were forced to flee their homes and country, and that number is rapidly rising. As the human toll of this unnecessary conflict unfolds before the world, neighboring countries are working to absorb and care for individuals and families caught up in what is now the largest refugee crisis since World War II.
As concerned neighbors and friends, we have an opportunity to assist the Ukrainians, as well as those across Europe, rushing to the border to assist them. Here are a few ways you can support their efforts and show your solidarity with the people of Ukraine:
Donate to agencies working directly at the Ukrainian border or volunteer your time and means to assist in their safe arrival and integration.
Listen to refugees and amplify their voices in your communities, media outlets, and in the halls of power by sharing their stories.
As we extend support to Ukrainian refugees, let us (re-)commit to providing a community of welcome and support for all forcibly displaced people.
My First Asylum Case: An Attorney's Perspective on Asylum in the United States
I took my first asylum case in 2016, when our national dialog on immigration took a decidedly negative turn. As a corporate attorney, I had no experience in immigration law, but my license allowed me to represent individuals fleeing severe persecution and I signed with a local non-profit to offer my help. My first asylum client was a young mother and her two small daughters. I could see myself in Saba.
Their Story is Our Story Applauds the Signing of Virginia House Bill 995 and Continues Efforts to Open Doors for Foreign-trained Medical Professionals in Other States
Their Story is Our Story (TSOS), a non-profit organization that collects and shares the experiences of refugees to deepen understanding and influence action, applauds the signing of Virginia House Bill 995 into law by Governor Glenn Youngkin, after its unanimous passage through the Virginia House of Delegates and Senate. It will create a pathway for foreign-trained doctors who have immigrated to the state, including those whose careers were interrupted by forcible displacement, to fill workforce gaps in medically underserved communities.
Idaho One Refugee Conference
Last fall I was able to attend the 1Refugee Conference in Idaho. The event was well organized and everyone who approached our table was interested in what we did and wanted to know how to get involved. There were at least 100 students majoring in a variety of things who attended the event and we had 20 students give us their contact information. Most were interested in our internship programs.