"The problem is not just me and my kid. Not just that refugee and the kids. The problem is my whole country." - Adiba Matin, Afghan Refugee
In a world increasingly marred by conflict, persecution, and climate change, millions of individuals and families find themselves forced to flee their homes, seeking safety and a better life in foreign lands. The United States remains a key destination for many refugees. However, the journey to a new life is often fraught with challenges, carrying not only the burdens of the past but also the hope for a brighter future.
What is a Refugee?
A refugee is someone forced to flee their country due to fear of persecution, war, or violence. Megan Hecht, an attorney practicing at the Justice Center in Massachusetts, explains the legal process for refugee status and resettlement in the U.S.:
"To qualify for refugee status, you must show that you have a well-founded fear of persecution in your home country based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. Additionally, your home country’s government must be unable or unwilling to protect you."
Trends in Refugee Arrivals to the U.S. (1975-2022) Data from the U.S. Department of State and the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration highlights the changing trends in refugee arrivals from different parts of the world. Click the link below to explore these trends:
Language and Cultural Barriers
One major challenge refugees face upon arriving in the U.S. is overcoming language barriers. As Adiba Matin shares: "The language problem would not just be with me, but with my husband and my kids. They do not understand the language. They do not understand the culture." In 2019, nearly 45% of refugees resettled in the U.S. spoke limited English, which complicates communication and access to essential services. Programs like English as a Second Language (ESL) are vital in helping refugees navigate their new environment. Adjusting to a New Culture For many refugees, adjusting to the cultural differences of the U.S. while preserving their own identity can be challenging. Meron Kleftsiyon, a refugee from Eritrea, shares her experience: "So that’s a lot of difference actually. But I was aware of the cultural difference between my language, which became my culture, and the American culture." Cultural adjustment involves navigating new social norms, values, and customs while trying to maintain one's own cultural identity. This can create feelings of dislocation and anxiety, which is why community support is crucial. Employment Challenges Refugees often face significant barriers in finding employment, including language difficulties, lack of recognition for foreign qualifications, and unfamiliarity with the local job market. As Meron explains: "Finding a job requires taking courses, improving internet literacy, or even learning basic English. This makes the journey to employment even more complex for those who have already faced the trauma of displacement." While many refugee assistance programs offer job placement services and skills development, refugees often end up in jobs that don't align with their previous experience or qualifications, leading to lower wages in the early years of resettlement.
