Washington, D.C.—On World Refugee Day, and in light of new data showing that more than 122.1 million people worldwide have been forcibly displaced by war, persecution, economic collapse, political instability, natural disasters, and the escalating impacts of climate change, Welcome.US released the following statement from CEO Nazanin Ash:
“Today, on World Refugee Day, we confront a stark and sobering truth: forced global displacement continues to rise relentlessly, yet predictably. According to the latest UNHCR annual Global Trends Report, over 122 million around the world have now been uprooted by violence, oppression, and converging humanitarian crises—a number that has nearly doubled over the last decade. It reflects both a global emergency and a political crisis.
“In the United States, immigration has become among the most divisive and politicized topics, not because Americans have lost the instinct to welcome newcomers, but because the conversation has been dominated by conflict rather than solutions. Yet, on the ground in communities throughout this country, the act of welcoming tells a much different story. Americans want to be part of the solution, and millions have come together across political affiliations, faiths, regions, and backgrounds to privately sponsor and support those seeking safety.
“Sponsorship reminds us of who we are when we rise to our highest ideals: generous, united, and full of hope. From rural towns to urban neighborhoods, Americans have opened their homes and hearts to individuals and families facing unimaginable hardship—and in doing so, they have embraced new friendships, exchanged cultural traditions, and forged lasting bonds that extend far beyond a newcomer’s first few months of resettlement.
“In all 50 states and more than 12,000 zip codes, Americans have stepped up—faith communities, veterans organizations, coworkers, neighbors, and more—welcoming newcomers with compassion and commitment. On World Refugee Day, we honor and thank them for showing the very best of who we are, and the possibilities available to us all when we solve challenges together.
“This day is a moment to reflect, but also to recommit. Americans are demonstrating that welcoming refugees is more than a policy choice, it is a statement about our values, our national identity, and our belief in the worth of every human life.
“As displacement once again reaches historic levels, we must meet the challenge with urgency, humanity, and purpose. Together we can ensure those forced to flee their homes are not forgotten, but given the opportunity to live in safety, rebuild with dignity, and thrive in freedom to reach their greatest potential.”
To learn more about how to get involved, please visit Welcome.US.
About Welcome.US
Welcome.US is a national initiative built to inspire, mobilize, and empower Americans and American institutions from all corners of the country to welcome and support those seeking refuge here. By unleashing the power of our civil society, the compassion of the American people, and innovations in the private sector, we have transformed our national resettlement system. Americans in 12,000 zip codes and across all 50 states have raised their hands to welcome newcomers through safe, legal, and orderly pathways—providing support to newcomers and our communities to thrive together and strengthen local economies.
