[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 88 (Monday, June 20, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1131]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  IN RECOGNITION OF WORLD REFUGEE DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JIM McDERMOTT

                             of washington-

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 20, 2011

  Mr. McDERMOTT. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to pay tribute to the 47 
million people worldwide who are displaced from their homes due to 
conflict or persecution. June 20, 2011 is World Refugee Day. This is a 
day to not only observe the courage and strength of the world's 
displaced population, but to honor their perseverance and lasting 
contributions to our communities.
  These are people who are optimistic that one day they will return to 
their homes--free from violence, political conflict, or war. However, 
due to ongoing instability in their home countries, the number of 
refugees who have been able to safely return to their homes has 
declined in recent years. We have the responsibility to support these 
men, women and children in their search for a safe and stable place to 
call home.
  World Refugee Day is also a time to recognize those who work to 
assist refugees across the globe. I am fortunate enough to have in my 
Congressional District of Seattle, Washington several dedicated 
organizations who have shown tremendous commitment to assisting the 
hundreds of newly arrived refugees in Washington State. Organizations 
such as the Refugee Women's Alliance, Lutheran Community Services 
Northwest, International Rescue Committee, Refugee Federation Service 
Center, and Southwest Youth and Family Services, just to name a few, 
have worked tirelessly to provide consistent advocacy and to improve 
the lives of many in Washington's Seventh District.
  Mr. Speaker, as the theme for this year's observance, ``Home'' is 
ultimately what fuels refugees' drive and optimism to search for a safe 
living environment. This is a time for Americans to reflect on a 
population whose quiet courage and resilience are an inspiration to us 
all. We all carry the responsibility to aid those whose spirits are so 
resilient and who hope for a brighter future, whether they are Burmese 
refugees escaping ethnic conflict or Iraqi refugees fleeing from 
violence. Let us recognize World Refugee Day and honor the millions of 
refugees worldwide.

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