June 20th marks World Refugee Day, when millions of people around the world celebrate the strength, courage, and resilience of those among us who have been forced to flee their home countries to escape serious violations of human rights in search of safety and protection in another country. Given the ongoing crises in Syria, Afghanistan, Somalia, and elsewhere, the world’s refugee population continues to increase to levels not seen in recent history; according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, there are now nearly 60 million forcibly displaced people worldwide. The need to find a durable solution for resettlement is now greater than ever.
Since 1975, the United States has welcomed more than 3.2 million refugees. These newcomers embraced the opportunities and challenges in the United States and, over time, successfully integrated into American society. They have contributed to the local economies and communities while building a life for themselves and their families.
Please join the Center for American Progress for a conversation on refugee resettlement and integration. Our panel will discuss how refugees contribute to local economies, how cities and states are working to better integrate refugees, and above all, the need to keep our doors open to new refugee populations. The panel marks the launch of a new report, published in conjunction with the Fiscal Policy Institute, which analyzes how four key refugee groups—Burmese, Hmong, Bosnian, and Somali—in the United States are integrating across a variety of indicators, from labor market participation, to business ownership, English language ability, and citizenship.
Welcoming remarks:
Winnie Stachelberg , Executive Vice President, External Affairs, Center for American Progress
Featured panelists:
David Dyssegaard Kallick, Senior Fellow, Fiscal Policy Institute
Sussan Khozouri, Senior Vice President, HIAS
Tim Mahoney , Mayor, Fargo, North Dakota
Augustin Ntabaganyimana , Director, Maryland Office for Refugees and Asylees
Moderated by:
Silva Mathema , Senior Policy Analyst, Center for American Progress