Introduction
Refugees and immigrants now make up a huge part of the world's population. We are now witnessing the highest levels of displacement on record. An unprecedented 65.3 million people around the world have been forced from home. Among them are nearly 21.3 million refugees, over half of whom are under the age of 18. There are also 10 million stateless people who have been denied a nationality and access to basic rights such as education, healthcare, employment and freedom of movement.
Who is a refugee? A refugee is someone who cannot live in their own country because they are afraid of being persecuted (abused or mistreated) because of their religion, political beliefs or social behavior. When you are given refugee status by another country you are allowed to live in that country, safe from harm. Many people consider themselves refugees whether or not they have been officially recognized by the government of the country in which they are seeking asylum. What is an asylum seeker? An asylum seeker is someone who seeks asylum (safety) in a foreign country and has applied to the government in the hope that they will be given refugee status. What is an internally displaced person? An internally displaced person is someone who seeks safety in another part of their country because they are afraid of being persecuted. They do not cross any international borders, so are not considered refugees.
Task
What makes an American? What is a refugee? What is an immigrant? What is the difference between an immigrant and a refugee? What contributions have refugees and immigrants made to US culture, and around the world? What contributions have refugees and immigrants made in your community? What can we do to help refugees?
Process
Immigrants have always been a part of America. Explore this Immigration Timeline. Learn about famous immigrants in America. Watch videos and listen to the stories of hundreds of immigrants in the United States here. President Trump recently placed an immigrant ban. Learn about the Immigration Ban!
Many people become naturalized citizens of the United States of America. Do do so, they must stay in the United States for a specific number of years, and meet some requirements. Once they are eligible to be citizens, they must take a U.S. Citizenship test. You can take a practice test too! Take a U.S. Citizenship test
People immigrate to different places around the world. Every country has refugees and immigrants. Learn about some immigrants and refugees in the United Kingdom here.
Who are refugees? Learn about them on this website. Find out the different refugee situations around the world, using this website. Refugees flee for their lives, and often have to leave everything behind. That means that they do not have their houses, clothes or personal belongings. Explore this link to see what kinds of things refugees need.
The Syrian conflict has torn the country apart, leaving thousands dead and driving millions to flee their homes. Many seek refuge in neighboring countries but others pay traffickers to take them to Europe - risking death, capture and deportation. If you were fleeing Syria for Europe, what choices would you make for you and your family? Take our journey here to understand the real dilemmas the refugees face.
Many foundations create organizations for refugee children. Learn about Our Bridge for Kids, a wonderful organization for refugee and immigrant children, to help them as they settle in their new homes! Learn about the refugee organization, I AM SYRIA, and what they are doing to contribute towards the solution to this global issue!
Refugees and immigrants are different. How? Explore this link and find out.