5 ways that you can help refugees

Refugees are young and old; children, teens and adults; parents and single people. But they are also human, so some refugees you meet may be polite and lovely while others may not be.

However, rude or uncivil behavior on their part doesn’t justify discriminating against them or withholding care. Instead, it’s an opportunity for us to show compassion and accept the fact that they are imperfect, just like everyone else on this planet.

If you’re interested in directly helping refugees, make them part of the design and delivery of any services. Not only will it improve what you’re doing, it will also address the unequal power dynamic that exists in aid efforts when refugees are not allowed input.

In addition, including refugees in service delivery can provide them with opportunities for employment. Many refugees can tell you where the gaps and blind spots are and help identify the best solutions. When hiring, know that their lived experiences are as important as traditional kinds of expertise.

There aren’t many organizations that are led by refugees for refugees, so when you find one, try to support it in any ways you can. Set up a monthly donation, volunteer your skills, and tell everyone you know about it.

One of the biggest threats to refugees fleeing conflict are the hostile policies that have become the norm.

From legalizing pushbacks at the border in Poland to the criminalizing of those seeking asylum in the UK, refugees have fled some of the worst situations created by humanity only to end up facing further cruelty.

If there is a hostile bill going through your local or national government, organize petitions and rallies and raise awareness. Vote for lawmakers who care about refugee rights and human rights. It is our responsibility to hold our politicians accountable.