On this World Refugee Day 2007, the Canadian Council for Refugees (CCR) invites Canadians to celebrate the tremendous strengths refugees bring.
“In resisting persecution and in escaping human rights violations, refugees demonstrate great strength,” said Elizabeth McWeeny, CCR President. “Having fled, they must often overcome huge obstacles to reach a place of safety, reunite with their families and start a new life.”
The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is encouraging people to reflect on refugees’ determination and will to survive and on the contributions they make to their host communities.
“Canada is made stronger by the refugees who join our society,” said McWeeny. “They bring their talents, survival skills and new perspectives. They give us eyewitness reports of conflicts and human rights abuses around the world. They challenge us to build a more just society where the dignity of all human beings is respected.”
Canadians have much to be proud of in our country’s response to refugees, although it is far from perfect. The CCR challenges Canadians to work together to make Canada a welcoming country, where refugee men, women and children are valued, offered protection, reunited speedily with their families and able to participate fully in society.
Many CCR member organizations are participating in local events across Canada to mark World Refugee Day 2007.
Contact:
Colleen French, CCR Communication Coordinator, tel. 514-277-7223 (ext. 1)