Nashville International

Dear all,

World Refugee Day is observed with mix feelings.  Refugees all over the world remember the first time they celebrated World Refugee Day.  As a young refugee child, myself, I remember when I initially arrived and celebrated the World Refugee Day at Itang Camp in Ethiopia some years ago. 

I know it was the same week my whole family mourned the disappearance of my Uncle, Gatluak Bum, from enemy hands.   I still remember it was the same week, as well when we ended long walks at nights for fear of adversary.  

Refugees are uprooted and forced out of their homes due to religion, political and other prosecutions.   These injustices humans do to each other cause massive displacements, homelessness, insecurities and sufferings.  Refugees witnessed all these things and endured pains with passions. 

Refugees are people with incredible histories.   I cannot remember a refugee man or woman that I have met who does not want to see their life change for the better.  Refugees want to surpass and achieve the brightest future for themselves and their families, especially, their children.   No one among refugee families wants their children to suffer again, nor fall short to world’s expectations.  

On behalf of myself, refugee families and NICE, I would like to thank individuals and organizations that are working tirelessly and doing extraordinary things with and for refugees.  Your support and encouragement makes it possible for our refugees and their families to acclimate and integrate to their new society. 

What you do is significantly important because you are restoring hopes that had lost, but could be regained through inspiration, support and encouragement.  Thank you very much for your passion!

Sincerely,

Gatluak Ter Thach