The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour, today acknowledges World Refugee Day.
World Refugee Day serves to raise awareness of the strength, courage and perseverance of millions of refugees around the world.
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to supporting Canada’s humanitarian obligations through refugee resettlement. Every year, a number of newcomers to Newfoundland and Labrador come to the province as refugees sponsored by private community groups or assisted by the Federal Government. The Provincial Government is committed to supporting meaningful transitions for former refugees in their social and economic integration journey, including through initiatives in The Way Forward on Immigration in Newfoundland and Labrador. That includes hands-on projects facilitating connections between skilled refugees and local employers in various sectors; 2019-20 priorities include empowerment-focused employment and self-employment initiatives to support former refugee women.
World Refugee Day is a time when Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are invited to join other Canadians and people around the world in expressing solidarity with individuals and families forced to flee their homes and countries in search of safety and protection. It is also a time to celebrate the achievements of individuals who have made Newfoundland and Labrador home through refugee resettlement, and who continue to enrich the province’s social, cultural and economic fabric.
Quotes
“Newfoundland and Labrador has and continues to proudly welcome refugees. These individuals endured incredible hardship before arriving on our shores. They generously share their skills, talents, and culture, building a new home for themselves and enriching their new communities. On this global day of recognition, it is my honour to express solidarity with, and celebrate the successes of, Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who first arrived here as refugees.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour
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Learn more
The Way Forward on Immigration in Newfoundland and Labrador
COMPAS – Service d’Accueil et de soutien aux nouveaux arrivants
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
Government of Canada – Refugees and asylum
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Media contact
Ryan Crocker
Advanced Education, Skills and Labour
709-729-1795, 725-9595
ryancrocker@gov.nl.ca