[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 89 (Thursday, June 20, 2013)]
[Senate]
[Page S4788]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      OBSERVING WORLD REFUGEE DAY

  Mr. UDALL of Colorado. Mr. President, I rise today in observance of 
World Refugee Day. Established by the United Nations on June 20, 2001, 
World Refugee Day honors the courage, strength, and perseverance of 
those forced to leave their homes under threat of persecution and 
conflict, as well as those escaping extreme poverty or environmental 
degradation. This annual commemoration recognizes the tremendous 
challenges faced by millions of displaced persons throughout the world 
and pays tribute to their invaluable contributions to the communities 
that have provided them shelter.
  Ongoing violence and the harmful effects of climate change have 
forced millions of people across the globe to make the impossible 
decision between risking their lives at home and leaving behind 
everything in search of safety. Refugees are individuals and families 
whose lives have been uprooted, whose communities have been destroyed, 
and whose future remains unclear. While these displaced people struggle 
for the most basic services, they are also looking for an opportunity 
to lay down new roots and provide for themselves and their families.
  For over 30 years, Coloradans have welcomed refugees into their 
communities, offering safety, security, and a place to call home. Our 
great State has provided them with an opportunity to use their diverse 
skills and expertise to make meaningful contributions to our way of 
life in the West. Today, we have over 48,000 refugees who have settled 
in Colorado from countries all across the globe. I would like to 
acknowledge this population for adding to our rich cultural heritage, 
for expanding our understanding of the world, and for strengthening our 
economy.
  While we will never be able to fully understand the sacrifices made 
by these vulnerable individuals and families, it should be a top 
priority to remember their struggles and recognize their strength. As a 
U.S. Senator, I reaffirm the commitment of Colorado and our Nation to 
the refugees, and I pledge to continue to work to address the 
underlying causes of refugee flows.
  On behalf of a grateful nation and State, I commend those who have 
risked their lives working individually, or with the multitude of 
dedicated nongovernmental organizations, to provide life-saving 
assistance and shelter to those displaced around the world. Let today 
serve as a reminder of our international responsibility to help our 
neighbors and of the importance of our shared humanity.

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