Commemorating "World Refugee Day" and Recognizing the Work of Dorcas International of Providence on June 20th of 2026, in the State of Rhode Island

WHEREAS, World Refugee Day is an international observance designated by the United Nations in order to honor and promote the well-being, resilience, and bravery of refugees and displaced persons around the world; and

WHEREAS, This year marks the th anniversary of the adoption of the Convention relating to the Status of Refugees which defined the term "refugee" and outlined the rights of refugees; and

WHEREAS, World Refugee Day encourages awareness and action for the rights, needs, and hopes of refugees, and is a time to acknowledge the challenges faced by refugees and reaffirm the importance of providing them with protection, assistance, and integration opportunities; and

WHEREAS, Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island has been providing services and guidance to refugees and immigrants in Rhode Island for over 100 years; and

WHEREAS, With programs including Refugee Resettlement, Citizenship and Immigration Legal Services, employment services, English classes, unaccompanied youth support, workforce development training, the Clothing Collaborative, Pinpoint Interpretation and Translation Services, and case management and mental health services for many of our immigrant and refugee neighbors, Dorcas House has demonstrated their deep commitment to creating an inclusive community where all are welcome and have the opportunity to thrive; and

WHEREAS, Most refugees integrate and quickly become self-sufficient members of the community by joining the workforce, paying taxes, supporting local commerce, helping to address labor demand in critical industries, and creating new jobs; and

WHEREAS, Welcoming those who have been oppressed and persecuted is a tenant of the founding of Rhode Island, which is now home to a diverse population of refugees and immigrants who contribute to the economic strengths and cultural richness of our communities; now, therefore be it

RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby commemorates and reaffirms the goals of "World Refugee Day" on June th of 2026, and recognizes and thanks Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island for their commitment to protecting refugees who live without adequate material, social, or legal protections; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to Kathy Cloutier, CEO of Dorcas International Institute of RI.