Learn About World Refugee Day
WatchMojo.com celebrates the forgotten world population of refugees on World Refugee Day, every June 20th.
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Learn About World Refugee Day
Learn About World Refugee Day
First celebrated June 20, 2001, World Refugee Day was created so the public could take time to think about and honor the world’s refugees. The day is meant to break down stereotypes and bring positive media attention to this global issue. A refugee is someone who has fled their home country to escape persecution, the threat of imprisonment, or even threats to their lives. These people have not left their countries for economic gain or prosperity, but simply to evade an unsolvable situation. They require a safe place to recover from their trauma and begin to rebuild their lives. It is important to remember that anyone could become a refugee at any time. According to National Geographic, there are at least 35 million uprooted people across the world. That is more refugees than the entire population of Canada.
World Refugee Day was created to coincide with Africa Refugee Day. 2001 marked the 50th anniversary of the convention relating to the status of refugees, and for this reason the UN general assembly decided that year to begin an international refugee day.
The message for 2008 is that of “protection and rebuilding.” With many unexpected natural disasters, including those in Myanmar and China, millions of people are being forced from their homes.
Show your support by uploading a picture of yourself, doing the “protecting hands” symbol. This sign represents a tent; the most basic form of shelter. Throughout the world, there are various activities held annually for this day; events such as film festivals, photo exhibitions, fashion shows, concerts and food bazaars. So take part in any of these numerous activities to celebrate the world’s refugees.
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