World Refugee Day

The latest development in the US just so happens to fall on World Refugee Day, where those who have fled dangerous situations are honoured for their bravery and contributions to their new homes. The Hamilton Public Library hosted an event earlier today.

O Canada was sung in various languages, because at the event, everyone hails from different places.

They have one thing in common: fleeing to Canada meant a new chapter void of violence or persecution.

Whether they arrived eight years ago or eight weeks ago, refugees gathered over art and food to share their stories of transitioning into this new life.

And how, in time, they found their footing.

In some cases, used their own experiences to help others like them.

While President Trump just signed an executive order to keep illegal-immigrant families together, the image of children being separated from their parents still resonates.

While those families being persecuted in the US entered the country on their own, Wesley Urban Ministries in Hamilton welcomes about 300 government-assisted refugees a year with Syrian civilians topping the list.