This significant day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2000 to honor refugees worldwide. It marks an opportunity to celebrate the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home countries to escape conflict or persecution. World Refugee Day not only raises awareness about the global refugee crisis but also fosters a sense of solidarity and responsibility among citizens to support those in need.
USA for UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing life-saving aid and protection to refugees and displaced people around the world. Our mission is to help forcibly displaced people rebuild their lives and secure a safer future. Established to support the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), USA for UNHCR works tirelessly to raise funds and awareness in the United States, mobilizing the American public, corporate entities, civil society organizations and foundations to contribute to humanitarian efforts globally.
Every year on June 20th USA for UNHCR leverages World Refugee Day (WRD) to amplify the voices of the now more than 114 million women, children and men who have been forced to flee their homes due to war, conflict or persecution. This year, USA for UNHCR will amplify the voice of Lucky Karim, 20, who fled Myanmar in 2017 and lived in the camps in Cox’s Bazar before being resettled to the U.S. in December 2022. In Kutupalong, Lucky was the first Rohingya girl to speak English in her community and served as an interpreter and advocate. In her short time in the U.S., she has expanded her advocacy work, meeting with government officials and policymakers to advocate for the rights of women, gender equality and refugees overall. “I believe all other refugees around the world should hear my story to be inspired, to be encouraged and to know that stateless or refugee girls can still do anything,” shares Lucky.
Why We Think It Is Important to Engage Our Corporate and Foundation Partners Around Raising Awareness and Advocacy on This Day
To better engage our corporate and foundation partners around World Refugee Day, USA for UNHCR created a comprehensive toolkit that can be personalized to demonstrate solidarity with refugees. This engagement is critical for the following reasons:
1. Amplifying the Message: Corporations and foundations have extensive networks and platforms that can significantly amplify the message of World Refugee Day. By leveraging their reach, USA for UNHCR can educate a broader audience about the challenges faced by refugees and the importance of supporting them.
2. Resource Mobilization: Corporate and foundation partners and their networks can provide substantial financial support and in-kind donations. Their contributions are vital in ensuring that UNHCR can continue its lifesaving work; providing food, shelter, healthcare and education to millions of displaced individuals.
3. Advocacy: Partners often have considerable influence in policy-making spheres.By working together, USA for UNHCR and our corporate partners can join forces to advocate for more inclusive and supportive policies for refugees, helping to ensure that their rights are protected and their needs are met.
4. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): For many corporations, supporting refugees aligns with their CSR goals. Partnering on World Refugee Day allows them to demonstrate their commitment to a spectrum of causes linked to displacement, including social justice and humanitarian issues, climate change, and contributions to durable solutions, enhancing their brand reputation and fostering a positive corporate image.
How Employee Engagement is Vital to Building Long-Term and Sustained Champions
Employee engagement is a cornerstone of building long-term and sustained champions for refugee advocacy. Here is why it matters:
1. Personal Connection: When employees are directly involved in refugee support initiatives, they develop a personal connection to the cause. This connection fosters a deeper understanding and commitment, transforming them into passionate advocates for refugees.
2. Workplace Culture: Engaging employees in humanitarian efforts contributes to a positive and inclusive workplace culture. It encourages teamwork, empathy, and a sense of purpose, which can boost morale and job satisfaction.
3. Long-Term Advocacy: Employees who are engaged in refugee support initiatives are more likely to continue advocating for the cause outside of work. They become long-term champions who raise awareness in their communities, participate in fundraising activities and influence others to get involved.
How This Community Can Help
This community, including individuals, organizations, and businesses, can play a pivotal role in supporting refugees. Here are ways the Business Fights Poverty community can help:
1. Spread Awareness: Use social media platforms, blogs and local events to raise awareness about the plight of refugees. Share stories, facts and resources to educate others and foster empathy.
2. Fundraising: Organize fundraising events or campaigns to support USA for UNHCR’s efforts. Even small contributions can make a significant difference in providing essential services to refugees.
3. Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to support refugee programs. Whether you mentor, teach, or provide legal assistance, your contribution can have a profound impact on the lives of refugees.
4. Advocate: Engage with local and national policymakers to advocate for more supportive refugee policies. Write letters, sign petitions and participate in advocacy campaigns to ensure that refugee rights are protected.
5. Partner: Businesses and organizations can partner with USA for UNHCR to support refugee initiatives. This includes financial donations, in-kind contributions, or collaborative projects that provide resources and opportunities for refugees.
Thank You
The commitment and compassion of USA for UNHCR’s corporate and foundation partners can make a world of difference in the lives of those who have been forced to flee their homes. Together, we can continue to provide hope, protection and a brighter future for refugees around the world. Please, stand with USA for UNHCR and refugees everywhere.
Want to learn more? Contact us at pa**********@us*********.org or visit www.unrefugees.org for more information.
