World Refugee Day 2008
Every year, June 20th marks World Refugee Day, a day to remember the plight of refugees around the world and to recognize the contributions of refugees in our communities. It is a time to think about the rights of refugees, and to recall that for a refugee, every day is refugee day, when her rights are too often denied. And it is a time to act.
This year, the world will commemorate World Refugee Day for the seventh time with the theme “Protecting Refugees: Rebuilding Lives in Safety and Dignity,” in order to draw the public’s attention to the millions of refugees worldwide who are forced to flee their homes.
Get involved! There are lots of things you can do on and around June 20th to raise awareness of the situation of refugees around the world, and of the rights that they carry with them as they move.
If you can't join one of the large events happening across the country, consider organizing a small event at your home or in your community. Every time you raise your voice for refugees, you make a difference.
World Refugee Day Activities From 2007
Wednesday, June 20
Washington, DC
Amnesty International's refugee program director and the advocacy director for the Middle East will make visits to legislators on Capitol Hill to discuss legislation in support of Iraqi refugees. Key coalition partners will join AIUSA staff members to express support for positive legislation.
Wednesday, June 20
Selected locations
Amnesty International USA members in seven states will visit asylum seekers in detention to offer moral support and express solidarity. Please note that the visits are contingent upon permission from detention centers and the Department of Homeland Security.
Thursday, June 21
Berkeley, CA
Amnesty International USA and Asylum Access will cohost a screening of Chasing Freedom, based on the true story of an Afghani asylum seeker in the United States. The screening will be followed by a discussion with a staff member from Asylum Access, and a local bay area immigration attorney.
Saturday, June 23
Taylor, TX
Join the rally at the Don T. Hutto detention facility in Taylor, TX. Activists from across the country will gather to protest the use of Hutto, a former prison, to detain migrants and asylum seekers, including families with children.
