How High School Students are Standing with Refugees
24 October 2024|Chloe Gunther
Across JRS globally, students play a key role in carrying out our mission to accompany, serve, and advocate on behalf of those forced to flee their homes. Whether in their classrooms, at Advocacy Days, or through JRS Action Teams on their campuses, these students remain steadfast in their commitment to refugees and migrants.
Recently, the head of JRS Education and Livelihoods Programs at the International Office met with students from several high schools in Ohio to discuss access to education for refugees. She shared insights about a school in Kakuma refugee camp, where JRS supports students with diverse abilities and prioritizes the inclusion of girls in the classroom.
“Her presentation highlighted how important it is for individuals and organizations to provide any support possible, especially to those in refugee camps such as Kakuma who are in dire need of resources,” said Walsh Jesuit senior Gracie March.
By engaging young people, like the students at Walsh Jesuit and Xavier High School in Ohio, they not only connect with a broader global community, but it also helps increase understanding of the challenges refugees face. Educating students about these issues ensures that they bring the plight of refugees home, fostering compassion and awareness that will shape their perspectives as future voters and decision-makers.
“The main takeaway for me was the strategic planning involved in helping people in Kenya,” said Elena Rizzo, also a senior at Walsh Jesuit. “[The presentation] put into perspective all the difficult factors that the people face and posed questions on how to resolve the problems they are facing. It put into perspective for me how tough these situations are and raised a passion for wanting to help in ways that will be beneficial.”
For other students inspired to take action, there are a number of options. By forming or joining a JRS Action Team, students can work together on advocacy efforts, raise awareness amongst their peers about refugees’ needs, and help raise funds for JRS. Some of the activities Teams have organized include film screenings, panel discussions, fundraising challenges to other schools’ Action
Teams, and volunteering with local refugee organizations. Participating in Advocacy Day is another opportunity where students can speak directly with policymakers, ensuring refugee voices are heard by decisionmakers.
Additionally, getting involved with JRS Canada and JRS/USA’s ON THE MOVE project offers two simulation exercises that encourage participants to put themselves in the shoes of refugees.
Through both large and small efforts, students across the US have the opportunity to contribute to building a more just and compassionate world for all. As we continue to respond to situations of conflict that are escalating in both number and severity, we encourage students to visit this webpage to see how they can partner with us.