Press Release: Office of New Americans Celebrates World Refugee Day Through Collaboration with Colorado Refugee Speakers Bureau

(DENVER, CO) - Governor Jared Polis has officially declared June 20, 2026, as Colorado's World Refugee Day. Celebrated globally every year on June 20th, World Refugee Day is designated by the United Nations General Assembly to celebrate the strength and resilience of refugees and draw attention to the ongoing challenges that refugees face worldwide. Colorado's designation celebrates the state's longstanding commitment to welcoming our new refugee neighbors, reaffirming Governor Polis' vision of a Colorado for All where every resident has the opportunity to thrive.

The Governor's proclamation emphasizes the valuable contributions refugees make to the state. Colorado proudly recognizes the resilience, talent, motivation, and potential that refugees bring to communities across Colorado. Since 1980, over 80,000 refugees have rebuilt their lives in the state. Refugees are significant economic contributors, gaining employment with employers across key sectors, including manufacturing, transportation, and healthcare. Learn more about Colorado's newest refugee neighbors in the Annual Refugee Data Infographics published on the Office of New Americans' website.

In recognition of World Refugee Day, the Colorado Refugee Speakers Bureau is hosting its annual showcase event on June 20th in downtown Denver. This powerful evening of storytelling centers the voices, leadership, and lived experiences of refugees who resettled in Colorado. Tetiana Sherman, a Ukrainian refugee and a member of the bureau, shared her experience of participating in this meaningful event: "I found my voice through the showcase in how I shared my story, my culture, and even my food. It reminded me that our stories have the power to connect hearts, build understanding, and turn strangers into community."

The event provides a platform for refugees to share their unique stories, and invites Coloradans to get to know our refugee neighbors.

"The Colorado Refugee Speakers Bureau is a catalyst for social change, promoting equity and unity through the power of storytelling. By sharing how refugees thrive despite challenging journeys, we foster inclusive communities and uphold the resilience and humanity that define Colorado," said the Steering Committee for the Bureau.

ONA has been a longtime collaborator and supporter of the Bureau, and values the leadership, connection, advocacy, and community education this group provides statewide and nationally. Purchase tickets for the World Refugee Showcase here and explore the Colorado Refugee Speakers Bureau website to learn more.

Show your support by attending one of the upcoming events in recognition of World Refugee Day:

• Refugee Speakers Bureau Showcase: June 20, 6-9pm
  • Attend the World Refugee Showcase featuring the newest members of the Colorado Refugee Speakers Bureau. The event will be held in downtown Denver, with the location provided to ticket holders. Purchase tickets here.
• United Through Soccer: A World Refugee Day Benefit for Newcomer Youth: June 20, 1-5pm.
  • Come and be united through soccer, a World Refugee Day benefit event for newcomer youth hosted by Soccer Without Borders (SWB). The event will be held at the Posner Center for International Development, 1031 33rd St., Denver, CO. Visit SWB's event page for more details.
• Hope Shines Brighter: A Celebration of World Refugee Day, June 26, 5-8pm
  • Enjoy an evening of performances celebrating resilience and hope. Activities will feature a film screening, stories from the Colorado Refugee Speakers Bureau, and an inspirational concert with local musicians. The event will be held at the Lincoln Center in Fort Collins. Visit Church World Service's event page for more details.

About the Office of New Americans

The Office of New Americans (ONA) serves as the point of contact for state agencies, private sector organizations, and the public to advance the integration and inclusion of New Americans in Colorado communities. ONA's mission is to facilitate the integration and inclusion of New Americans into Colorado's civic, economic, and social life. To learn more about ONA, including their programs and services, New American data, and more, please visit: ona.colorado.gov.

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