Celebrate World Refugee Day and Welcome Your Neighbors
May 29, 2019 — “Every minute, 20 people around the globe leave everything behind to escape war, persecution or terror,” according to the United Nations. The UN designated June 20 as World Refugee Day to commemorate the perseverance of refugees and demonstrate public support.
The Library invites you and your family to celebrate World Refugee Day and welcome new Americans living in Springfield and Greene County with documentary viewings, crafts and other activities at the Library Station.
During the celebration, stop in the lobby and watch the Library’s Welcome Videos in Arabic, Chin, Russian, Spanish and Swahili for limited- or non-English speaking residents. The videos star local residents and were made possible by an Institute of Museum and Library Services grant and Friends of the Library.
World Refugee Day: “Warehoused” Documentary & Discussion
Thursday, June 20, 6:30-9 p.m. in the Frisco Room. Explore the plight of long-term refugees through the lives of those living in Dadaab, Kenya, one of the world's largest refugee camps. Stay for a panel discussion of new Americans sharing their refugee resettlement experience in Springfield.
World Refugee Day Celebration
Saturday, June 22, 1-9 p.m. for all ages.
- 1-9 p.m. Create a community welcome banner that will hang in the lobby until September. Visit the Children’s Department for special activities.
- 1 p.m. in the lobby: Korean Drumming Performance. Enjoy a live performance of Korean drumming and singing by new Americans.
- 2-4 p.m. in the Frisco Room: DIY Welcome Sign. Create a pallet welcome sign for your home to make your neighbors feel welcome. Registration starts June 10; call 616-0683.
- 6-8 p.m. in the Frisco Room. “Salam Neighbor” Documentary. Immerse yourself into the life of a Syrian refugee through the journey of Chris and Zach as the first filmmakers allowed to be registered and given a tent inside of a refugee camp.
Little Voices
Sunday, June 23, 3 p.m. for age 2-grade 2 in the Story Hour Room. The Library is a safe space to explore diversity, learn about empathy and teach tolerance. Join us for stories, songs and other activities celebrating A Land of Opportunity.
World Refugee Day Celebration events are sponsored by Friends of the Library.