On June 20th, World Refugee Day is honoured!

What is a Refugee?

A Refugee is a person who is living outside their home country that is unable or unwilling to return to their home country because of war, violence, or persecution. It is estimated that there are millions of people around the World who are displaced from their homes.

What is World Refugee Day?

Today is a day to acknowledge the courage, resilience, and strength of the millions of Refugees across the world who've been forced to leave their homes and lives to start a new one due to conflict, violence, war, or persecution.

This day emphasizes the need to recognize the hardships Refugees endure, and to be empathetic in their journey of rebuilding new lives.

Watch this video to learn how Refugees Are Good for Canada!

Refugees in Canada & Chatham-Kent

In 2019, Canada was a world leader in the resettlement of Refugees, welcoming 30,082 people who were displaced from their homelands. Locally, the Municipality of Chatham-Kent has been working to ensure that people who are displaced are able to live and get the supports they need in the community.

In 2016, the Municipality of Chatham-Kent was recognized as a welcoming community by the Federal government and one that supports all people immigrating to Chatham-Kent. Over the last few years, the Municipality has worked with partners and community members to welcome families and newcomers to the area, including people displaced by violence, war, or persecution. In May 2022, Municipal Council directed staff to reach out to Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada to express our community’s continued interest in welcoming Refugees and displaced people to our community.

Local Resources:

Assistance for Refugees and Displaced Peoples: Supports available to people arriving in Chatham-Kent and information on how the community can help.

The Chatham-Kent Local Immigration Partnership (CKLIP): ready to welcome newcomers, including Refugees and Immigrants from around the world!

CK Ethno-Cultural Community List: CK is home to many ethno-cultural communities, associations, and groups. Check them out here!