On the recordJune 20, 2013
I rise today in observance of World Refugee Day. Established by the United Nations on June 20, 2001, World Refugee Day honors the courage, strength, and perseverance of those forced to leave their homes under threat of persecution and conflict, as well as those escaping extreme poverty or environmental degradation. This annual commemoration recognizes the tremendous challenges faced by millions of displaced persons throughout the world and pays tribute to their invaluable contributions to the communities that have provided them shelter. Ongoing violence and the harmful effects of climate change have forced millions of people across the globe to make the impossible decision between risking their lives at home and leaving behind everything in search of safety. Refugees are individuals and families whose lives have been uprooted, whose communities have been destroyed, and whose future remains unclear. While these displaced people struggle for the most basic services, they are also looking for an opportunity to lay down new roots and provide for themselves and their families. For over 30 years, Coloradans have welcomed refugees into their communities, offering safety, security, and a place to call home. Our great State has provided them with an opportunity to use their diverse skills and expertise to make meaningful contributions to our way of life in the West. Today, we have over 48,000 refugees who have settled in Colorado from countries all across the globe.…





