World Refugee Day

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According to the United Nation’s Refugee agency, the number of displaced people around the world is at its highest ever. The UN report was released on World Refugee Day, which honours the strength, courage and perseverance of millions of refugees.

Gang violence forced Milton Jean to flee his home in Haiti, leaving behind his kids and wife. He hasn’t found work since coming to Canada 7 months ago, unfortunately his story is not unique. According to the United Nations there were more than 65 million people displaced last year, that’s more than 4 times the population of Ontario.

The number of displaced people jumped 10% from the year before. The UN says conflicts in places like Syria and Afghanistan are to blame for record breaking numbers. The Geneva based agency says leaders in Europe and North America need to do more to end wars in conflict zones.

About 50 people took part in the World Refugee march in Fort Erie this morning, joining people across the country in the celebration. Many have come from countries like Columbia, Peru, Eritrea and Haiti.