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Louisiana – In the spirit of solidarity, unity, and resilience that marks World Refugee Day, the Louisiana Organization for Refugees and Immigrants (LORI) extends its heart and hand to every refugee and immigrant who has embraced our nation, our state, and our city as their new home. As we reflect on their journeys, courage, and relentless hope, we also celebrate the strength they bring to our communities, enriching them with their unique cultural heritage, industry, and indomitable will.
“Refugees are not merely people who have been displaced; they are people who have the strength to rebuild, grow, and contribute to their communities in invaluable ways,” says Dauda Sesay, Founder and CEO of LORI.
Noel Ndjie, LORI’s ESL-Civic Instructor and Coordinator, elaborates on the theme of World Refugee Day, “The resilience and determination of refugees is a testament to the enduring human spirit. We have an obligation to uphold the dignity of these brave individuals, to foster safe spaces for them, and to provide pathways for them to reclaim their lives and potential.”
Sharon Njie, Communication and Strategic Partnership Director at LORI, highlights the value of fostering a welcoming community, “World Refugee Day is a time to celebrate our shared humanity. A welcoming, inclusive community isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a must-have. It strengthens our social, civic, and economic fabric and affirms the universal desire to feel safe, loved, and welcome in the place we call home.”
Sara-Louis Ayo, Policy and Advocacy Organizer mirrors what home used to be like as a refugee child who has gone through terrible times fleeing from country to country and her home country, Sudan ~ I don't think I will ever get back; my country split into two that I can't trace myself whole anymore, but yet here I am. It takes resilience and positivity to be different, whether you're black or brown, in a place that frequently tries to swallow you whole. Because becoming a refugee is not a choice, we left everything behind except for hope.No one ever wants to go through the migration trauma. But here we are, drained of hope but successful, like a flower in bloom. Oh, the things we surpass! We celebrate the perseverance of refugees on this day set aside for them and the generosity and tolerance of the communities that have welcomed them. Every refugee is a testament to the strong human spirit. The struggle, perseverance, and achievements that confirm that despite everything, you can survive being an outsider in someone else's home are affirmed by common ideals of hope, courage, and the constant pursuit of a brighter tomorrow.
Marcela Hernandez, Program and Organizing Manager, shares light on what World Refugee Day means ~ "it is a day not only to celebrate, dance, enjoy cultural performances, and eat unique international dishes, is a day to break the silence, uplift our unified voices as immigrants and refugees and let the world hear our powerful stories. It is a day when we come together as a human race and commemorate our history, traditions, and ancestors; it is a day when we become stronger as brothers and sisters and unify our city and State. It is a day where LORI brings power to the people and recognizes the importance of every individual living in our new home. Give yourself, your family, and your friends the opportunity to be part of an enriched and unforgettable experience full of love, compassion, and solidarity.
Today, LORI highlights three vital areas that need our immediate attention and action:
1. The termination of the 287(g) agreement. This step will serve to build trust between refugees, immigrants, and law enforcement, creating safer, stronger, and more unified communities.
2. The adoption of a welcoming resolution in Baton Rouge. We call on our council members to stand as leaders in this cause, endorsing an official statement that asserts Baton Rouge as a city that stands for inclusivity and mutual respect.
3. Driver’s licenses for All. A move that represents more than just a piece of identification, but a critical tool for independence, enabling families to transport their children to school and activities and access healthcare services when necessary.
Dr. Lorinda Sealey, LORI Board Chair, reinforces this by reflecting on the theme “Hope Away from Home,” “Refugees and immigrants leave familiar shores in pursuit of safety and a better future. They arrive with the readiness to contribute to their new homes. At LORI, our mission is to ensure that this hope and optimism are nurtured and not extinguished. We are here to provide ‘Hope Away from Home.''
Dr. Pamela Ravare-Jones, LORI Vice-Board Chair, appreciates being a voice of support at such a critical time in the world when over 110 million people are displaced from their homes. LORI is a source of immeasurable value within the state of Louisiana by providing the necessary resources and information to individuals and communities who deserve support. World Refugee Day within the Capital City is an opportunity for us to join a national movement to celebrate the uniqueness of cultures in our state and open our minds to fully understand the necessity of providing a home to refugees. I’m proud to be connected to an organization dedicated to giving hope and serving people facing such challenges.
Drawing parallels to Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome’s MOVEEBR initiative, we see the vision of a thriving community rooted in inclusivity and opportunity. The MOVEEBR projects prioritize mobility, traffic safety, and community aesthetics to stimulate local businesses and economic growth.
Sesay reiterates, “Let us not just move, but MOVEEBR forward together. Let us ensure our city, Baton Rouge, is a haven for everyone, refugees and immigrants included. They are an essential part of the rich fabric that makes up our community.”
We implore every individual, every leader, and every community member in Louisiana, to stand with us in this endeavor. Let us unite in creating an environment that thrives on compassion, inclusivity, and understanding. Let us MOVEEBR forward together.
“Refugees have been an integral part of Louisiana's story recognizing the positive impact of refugees on our culture, community, economy, and civic lives - UNHCR shares the contributions of refugees ~ Refugees are experts at creating hope and better futures, given the chance.
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