2025 World Refugee Day Celebration

Together on Treaty One: Stories of Welcome and Belonging

On World Refugee Day (WRD), join us in a powerful celebration of welcome, resilience, and cultural exchange, as Indigenous Peoples open their hearts to refugees in a unique and meaningful way. This special event brings together more than 20 organizations, united in their commitment to supporting refugees and honouring the deep-rooted traditions of Indigenous communities. This event not only marks World Refugee Day but also coincides with Indigenous Week, highlighting the importance of cultural exchange, reconciliation, and mutual respect.

For centuries, Indigenous communities have upheld traditions of hospitality, recognizing the importance of land, belonging, and community. As the original caretakers of these lands, Indigenous Peoples understand displacement and the search for home in ways that deeply resonate with refugee experiences. Their welcome is more than symbolic, it is a recognition of shared struggles, resilience, and the strength that comes from unity.

During this event, Indigenous leaders, elders, and knowledge keepers acknowledge refugees as valued members of the community. Through storytelling, dance, and shared customs, they will highlight the importance of kinship, reconciliation, and inclusivity, reinforcing the message that home is not just a place, but a feeling of belonging and connection.

Personal Testimonies: Refugees and private sponsors will share their powerful stories of resilience, integration, and the journey to rebuilding their lives. Their voices will take center stage, highlighting the transformative impact of community support.
Media Engagement: Exclusive media interviews will be arranged, providing an opportunity to amplify these personal narratives and raise awareness of refugee experiences. Media partners are invited to collaborate with event organizers to share these inspiring stories with a wider audience.
Cultural Performances: A vibrant lineup of performances will celebrate the beautiful diversity that strengthens our communities.
Community Collaboration: More than 20 organizations from across different sectors will come together to create an inclusive and supportive space where refugees, Indigenous communities, and the public can connect, learn, and stand in solidarity.
We welcome our members and partners to register for the event and participate in it.

Click on the “Register” link below to let us know if you can join us. Registration is not required but encouraged, and members of the public are welcome to participate in the event on the day of. 

We look forward to your participation as individuals, and as service providers, on June 20th.  Let’s celebrate together, share stories, and build bridges across communities!

Please reach out to Karen Loeb (k.loeb@mansomanitoba.ca) with any questions about World Refugee Day. 

Communiquez avec Karen Loeb (k.loeb@mansomanitoba.ca) pour toute question concernant la Journée mondiale des réfugiés.