ALEXANDRIA, Va – On Thursday, June 20, Alexandria will recognize World Refugee Day with other cities across the globe. There are 25.4 million refugees worldwide, 60 percent of whom live in urban areas.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees leads this initiative to welcome refugees into communities.
Alexandria is a thriving community with many residents from diverse cultures and backgrounds. The city council adopted legislation 12 years ago proclaiming Alexandria a welcoming city, one that treats all with dignity and respect. In 2016, the city produced an additional statement that expanded on inclusiveness, writing of the value of each person’s dignity and worth.
World Refugee Day began in 2000 to recognize the strength and resilience of refugees. The day also serves to raise awareness of their plight – having to leave their countries to escape war, persecution, and natural disaster.
This year, cities are encouraged to place extra emphasis on inclusion, support, and understanding. To read the city council’s resolution and related statements, click HERE.
