This week I went to help with the set up and break down of an interesting event at DU, sponsored by the African Community Center. The even was Voices of Refugees: Stories of Fear, Courage and Triumph – five refugees got up on stage and told their stories to a packed auditorium.
Iraq – Haiffaa Ali, one of the first Iraqis to resettle in Denver, fled Baghdad after her father was murdered by militiamen in his home. She talked about being absolutely devasted when she found out that she had been granted entry to the US, the one country she hated for ruining her country – and about the amazing transformation of her view of America and its people once she got here.
Sudan - Lado Jurkin, a “Lost Boys,” will speak about his extraordinary experiences while walking from Sudan to Ethiopia and then to Kenya.
Somalia – Jamal Ali, arrived in the U.S. severely malnourished and on the verge of death. Since then he has thrived to become a leader in the community, helping other refugees start new lives in Denver.
Burma (Myanmar) – Aung Kyaw Toe, escaped Rangoon after the bloody 1988 protests and will speak of the current situation in his homeland.
Great job ACC – keep up the good work!
