What does refugee resilience mean to you?
Refugees move thousands of miles to a completely different country and culture to start their new life with great courage, a deep knowledge of how to endure many hardships, the ability and inner desire to thrive in challenging environments, and the willingness to work hard and be creative in their desire to live a better and safer life.
The ability to adapt to different situations around you that you don’t have control over. To forge ahead with nothing but hope.
Refugees have a sense of their own efficacy and ability, are socially and politically competent, and have a positive self-esteem. They have the ability to cope with conditions of severe adversity.
My wife, daughter, and I came to the U.S. in 2009 with two bags and $20 cash. With very little knowledge of American culture and the American way of life, we had some difficulties in the beginning. We struggled and worked hard, keeping hope and our heads held high.
Refugee resilience means perseverance in the face of insurmountable odds. At its core, it is the capacity to find joy and sanctuary in spite of the arduous journey of exodus. It is the human spirit.
Refugee resilience means that a person needs a space to breathe, a peaceful and quiet place, so that he/she can work hard, play by the rules of law, and contribute to the development of the state/country where he resides.
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