Dancers at World Refugee Day at Grow North Farm, 2022. Photo courtesy of CSS.
A celebration of World Refugee Day took place at the Grow North Farm in Mountain View on June 22. This is one of three gardens that Refugee Assistance & Immigration Services has in Anchorage where their clients can grow vegetables for recreation and earn extra money. Robin Dempsy, CEO of Catholic Social Services kicked off the recognition ceremony and said that the organization has served over 775 people since October 2021. She spoke of the event as “a testament to the love and support for refugees” by the community in Anchorage.
Lawmakers showed up for the event, including Alaska state senator Forrest Dunbar, Anchorage Assembly member Anna Brawley, and Anchorage Assembly member George Martinez. Easter Vito was there representing Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski’s office, and Mike Robbins was there representing Mayor Bronson.
During the awards and presentations, the audience got to see just how the community supports immigrants.
Issa Spatrisano was introduced and she joked, “I do very little except fill out reports!” She explained that “resettlement does not happen without volunteers” and that it depended on people outside the organization to make it work.
Awards and recognition were given to people, businesses and groups who had worked hard as volunteers and helpers.
Businesses were recognized for interviewing and hiring refugees, and some individuals were also recognized for their special work, such as helping children and parents adjust, being a good landlord, teaching English as a Second Language to seniors.
The recognition awards reflected that Refugee Assistance & Immigration Services is a vital hub in immigration activity, and that they could not accomplish what they do without community support.
During the ceremony, children were off to the side playing soccer and other games. People were relaxed and smiling, many wearing cultural dress, with groups speaking many languages.
After the speakers, dances were performed by some of the different peoples represented at the event, which also introduced us to some of their music.
There were tables set up for culture sharing and refugee help. Vegetables that were grown on the farm were in their own section.
The United Nations Refugee Agency website says, “World Refugee Day shines a light on the rights, needs and dreams of refugees, helping to mobilize political will and resources so refugees can not only survive but also thrive.”
World Refugee Day happens each year on June 20. Depending on the location, events can happen on or near the date. While the day has passed for 2023, consider watching for activities getting posted next year and attending in 2024.
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