Idaho Conference on Refugees: Belonging Begins with Us
When you're part of a virtual organization like ours sprinkled throughout parts of the U.S., UK, EU, Africa and South America, it can be challenging to feel a sense of connection and camaraderie with other TSOS teammates and even more difficult to measure the impact of the work you are doing. So last week when three of us--Brandi from Washington D.C., Sherianne from Montana, and Robin from Arizona--were able to meet in person at the Idaho Conference of Refugees, we were almost giddy! Added to that, we each felt such a deep sense of satisfaction to be able to share stories from our Global Refugee Archive Mental Health collection to a packed house of like-minded individuals who strongly affirmed our message and mission.
Idaho has strong engagement from many organizations who are supporting refugee newcomers to successfully integrate. During this two-day event, we made connections with and learned from community partners like: Idaho Office For Refugees, One Refugee, International Rescue Committee of Idaho, Jannus Economic Opportunity, Global Talent,Idaho Commission On The Arts, College of Southern Idaho, and others.
We plan to incorporate the things we learned and expand our storytelling opportunities in the Idaho region. Special thanks to the Idaho Office of Refugees for inviting TSOS to help create communities of welcome and belonging for all who have been displaced.
If you have a story you would like to contribute to the Global Refugee Archive or to discuss a special collaborative project contact us.
Connecting with Afghan Youth through Art
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.