Misconceptions about Refugees?

Misconceptions about refugees abound. As one of the largest resettlement agencies in Michigan, we often receive questions about refugees and their impact on our community. Whether by finding housing, jobs, or education for refugees our work allows us to serve those in need.

In a country comfortable with the status quo, it can be challenging to understand the need for change. Yet for refugees, who often arrive from war-torn countries or over-populated refugee camps, change means safety, and safety means the freedom to live their lives in peace. It’s simple to take peace for granted. For those who have never lived with the horrors of war or witnessed the poverty of a refugee camp, understanding the lives of refugees is challenging.

One step we can take to help refugees is to ask the right questions. Asking questions provides answers. An open mind welcomes new ideas. The world is wide enough for all, and we welcome the new experiences and knowledge of refugees from other cultures. As employees at a resettlement agency, staff at STVCC willingly help people find answers.

Answering Questions: Misconceptions About Refugees

We serve the public by providing answers, and serve our clients by providing homes. Concerns about refugees often originate in doubt and fear, and we hope to change that. Many refugees move to the United States and other countries to save their lives. In the United States, life is different for refugees, and readjusting takes time. Nevertheless, they want to come and seize the opportunity to live their lives without fear.

Life as a refugee is challenging, and being willing to understand their need is a great first step. In this video, members of our staff have taken the time to answer some questions they’ve received and share what they view as the biggest misconceptions about refugees.

STVCC Refugee Services is the only resettlement program for adult individuals and families in the Lansing Area. Since the program’s inception in the 1970’s, STVCC Refugee Services has resettled more than 17,000 refugees to the Lansing Area. Over the years, programming has expanded to include employment, education, outreach and health services in addition to resettlement. Refugees resettled into the community bring rich ethnic diversity, stimulate the economy and bring a positive impact to Lansing’s culture in business, schools and community organizations. For more information, visit our Refugee Services page.

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