World Refugee Day 2024
Each year on June 20th, the world celebrates the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home country to escape conflict or persecution.
The theme for 2024 World Refugee Week is ‘Our Home’, which reminds us that home can be more than one place and finding it can be a journey as it is for many of us who have to leave our countries and rebuild our lives.
UNHCR’s theme for World Refugee Day is Solidarity. Refugees need our solidarity now more than ever. Solidarity means keeping our doors open, celebrating their strengths and achievements, and reflecting on the challenges they face. It also means finding solutions to their plight – ending conflicts so they can return home in safety, ensuring they have opportunities to thrive in the communities that have welcomed them, and providing countries with the resources they need to include and support refugees.
Participate in Refugee Week
Refugee Week is June 17th – 23rd. We invite you to participate by exploring how we can make our home, a more welcoming, safe, and sustainable place for all. Simple Acts are everyday actions we can all take to stand with refugees and make new connections in our communities. No gesture is too small when it comes to making a difference. Below are a list of ideas. Click on each title to learn more.
Monday, June 17
Pick up a book from the library or bookstore that platforms the stories and perspectives of refugees and asylum seekers. The Calgary Public Library has made this process easier at its many branches by pulling relevant books for you to borrow.
Tuesday, June 18
Watch films that put the stories and voices of people from displaced and migrant backgrounds in focus.
Wednesday, June 19
Take small actions to care for our shared home and nurture our interconnected community to ensure a sustainable future for all.
Thursday, June 20
Share a message in person, at one of the library branches, Recreation facilities or at the Genesis Centre, or online, though social media on how you make your community home for everyone.
Friday, June 21
Get active and use our spaces to move towards a more inclusive and connected world.
Saturday, June 22
Enjoy a meal at one of the many local refugee-owned restaurants and coffee shops.
Sunday, June 23
Carry the spirit and energy of Refugee Week with you and continue to stand in solidarity with people seeking sanctuary.
Message of Hope
Last year we asked our partners and Calgary residents to create welcoming communities by writing messages of hope to refugees who have fled their country to start a new life in Calgary. Here is what they wrote:
