World Refugee Day Reflections

Lizeth Zava (Right)

The 2011 Houston World Refugee Day took place at the Baker-Ripley Neighborhood Center on Saturday, June 25 from 1-5pm. Although it was a hot summer day, participating resettlement agencies and non-profit organizations as well as refugees and volunteers came out to enjoy a day of cultural performances, children’s activities, artisan market and art exhibits.

Among the various talented dancers and musicians were dance groups from Bhutan, Burma, Rwanda and Sudan. Children enjoyed a range of activities from arts and crafts to a moon jump and athletic games. Attendants were also able to enjoy the “Share the Journey” Exhibit, a set of videos from UNHCR and other entities that were shown to educate the mainstream community about the refugees in the U.S. In addition, Christopher Weeden a photography student at University of Houston displayed some of his work about the Karen community.

The Resource Fair was a big success and it granted the opportunity for all attendants to learn about the different organizations and services available. Another popular spot was the artisan market where original artwork from Iraqi artist Mohammed Baro, indigenous arts and crafts from the Community Cloth and jewelry from the Sudanese Community were displayed for sale.

Overall, it was a beautiful array of ethnicities, colors and activities. A special recognition goes to all the Volunteers who made this event possible. The Houston World Refugee Day Committee is already looking forward to the 2012 celebration!

- Lizeth Zavala
Program Assistant
Interfaith Ministries Refugee Services
Co-chair, Houston World Refugee Day
http://refugeedayhouston.wordpress.com
http://twitter.com/WRDHouston
http://www.facebook.com/HoustonWRD

The following is an e-mail by one of our volunteers:
Volunteering for World Refugee Day was a unique experience for me. Living in Houston it's easy to see the variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds which live in our city, but understanding how some have come to our city has raised my awareness and appreciation for the road to getting here. I heard different languages, styles of dress, music, dancing and enjoyed it very much. At the same time, I saw the children laughing and playing as any child would, people smiling and coming together as one to celebrate the occasion just like any American would do for a holiday. I left there impressed and richer in the knowledge that we all aren't so different after all.

Thank you for the chance to be a part of the celebration.

Len Casarez.