Since 1982 Tucson has become home to almost 10,000 refugees.

A refugee is any person who is unable to return to his or her own country because of persecution or a well-founded fear of persecution on account of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. Each year thousands of families arrive in the United States from countries all over the world to rebuild their lives and become members of a new community. For many, Tucson has become that community.

Celebrations around the world!

The UN General Assembly selected June 20 as World Refugee Day in order to honor the strength and contributions of refugees around the world. The event is celebrated annually by refugees and international communities not only to highlight refugee resilience but to give voice to their stories. Tucson World RefugeeFest reveals Tucson’s membership in a larger global community. It recognizes the need for local communities such as Tucson to take part in the global effort dedicated to supporting and celebrating the strengths of refugees. Join us to hear their voices and celebrate their stories!

UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Angelina Jolie says don’t forget refugees