World Refugee Day

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. Once again this year, the International Institute of Erie organized a celebration in Perry Square that included demonstrations and performances by dozens of former refugees now living Erie. Many cultures and nations shared songs, stories, speeches and dancing from Nepal, Myanmar (Burma), Liberia, Togo, Burundi, Sudan, Bosnia, Ukraine, and the Hmong culture of Vietnam. In addition to performances, the public was invited to taste an amazing array of traditional cuisine and learn specifics about various displaced ethnicities. The Institute’s Community Outreach Coordinator, Jessica Lane, reflected, “For some groups this was the first time they’ve shared about their culture in public. We had such support from our clients and from many volunteers. It is so important that we honor their culture and the amazing traditions they bring to Erie.” Many former refugees were granted American citizenship earlier that day at the Federal Courthouse, making this year’s World Refugee Day a particularly poignant celebration.

Contact Museum Folk Art Coordinator, Kelly Armor for more information.