World Refugee Day (WRD) is a day in June designated by the United Nations. It is also among a number of culturally and historically significant days and events that the KOOP Radio Community Council celebrates as part of its mission of advocating for inclusion and diversity sensitivity both at the station and within the community. Austin, Texas will celebrate WRD on Saturday, June 7th at the Bullock Texas State History Museum.
WRD brings attention to the millions of refugees around the world, who were forced to flee their country due to conflict, persecution, and displacement caused by climate change, escaping with nothing but what they can carry, holding on to their children, and often facing torture or death. It serves as a reminder of the urgent need to support and protect refugees.
WRD honors the courage and resilience of refugees, who despite the hardships they face, such as deportation threats, discrimination, language challenges, homelessness, and access to health care, demonstrate strength and determination as they rebuild their lives in a new country and culture and make contributions to society. This determination persists even as funds are being reduced or eliminated from organizations providing assistance in these areas.
KOOP Radio celebrates WRD under the umbrella of the Austin Refugee Roundtable, Austin Refugee Roundtable a collective of many organizations who serve refugees with the aim of making Austin a welcoming and supportive resettlement community, bringing communities together to share knowledge about each other’s cultures and enhancing communication, understanding and compassion.
The Austin Refugee Roundtable has planned this event to include educational information about the journey of refugees, kids crafts, family portraits, culturally relevant cuisine, and entertainment including musical and dance performances. Interviews and discussions with individuals and organizations in attendance will be featured in a future broadcast on KOOP Radio airwaves.
A highlight of the celebration event is a naturalization ceremony, a final step and a significant milestone for immigrants, marking their full integration into the social, political, and legal fabric of the United States, our nation of immigrants.
The World Refugee Day celebration is open to the public and made possible by KOOP Radio and community volunteers and organizations generously volunteering time and resources in support of refugees.
More information about the event and a schedule can be found at Bullock State History Museum