Social media trend report
#RefugeeCrisis brought to light by photographer...
Humans of New York (HONY) photographer Brandon Stanton has been doing a series of photographs on his Facebook page, featuring refugees and their heart-rending stories. A recent post about a Syrian scientist who lost his wife. one of his children and seven other family members, when a missile ripped through his home, was shared in a series of seven photos on the HONY Facebook page. The photos struck a chord and even US President Barack Obama left a touching welcome note for this Syrian refugee, who is going to migrate to the US. The unnamed scientist, who has a PhD, has been cleared for resettlement with his remaining children and will soon be moving to Michigan.
Humans of New York -
The page quoted the scientist: “One of my inventions is being used right now on the Istanbul metro to generate electricity from the movement of the train. I have sketches for a plane that can fly for 48 hours without fuel. I’ve been thinking about a device that can predict earthquakes weeks before they happen. I just want a place to do my research. ”
President Obama:
“As a husband and a father, I cannot even begin to imagine the loss you’ve endured. You and your family are an inspiration. I know that the great people of Michigan will embrace you with the compassion and support you deserve. Yes, you can still make a difference in the world, and we’re proud that you’ll pursue your dreams here. Welcome to your new home. You’re part of what makes America great.”
Teo Dh:
“Brandon, there is a community center in Troy, Michigan, that’s already helping with Syrian children. If the gentleman needs any help with the initial settling, please get in touch with me and I can guide you or him to the appropriate people. He probably speaks English already, but if he doesn’t, there will be people from the same nationality that can hopefully provide translation or be a support group (if not for him, for his kids).”
Humans of New York -
“I’ve just returned from a trip to Jordan and Turkey, where I had the unique opportunity to interview
twelve Syrian families that have been cleared for resettlement in America. These families have just reached the finish line of a multi-year screening process, and it was quite an emotional experience to meet with them at this juncture. The life of a refugee in America is by no means easy. But for these families, their resettlement has finally brought the possibility of an end to years of intense hardship. I’m very much looking forward to sharing their stories with you over the coming days.”
Laura Grantham Broussard:
“Pay attention, world! Refugee resettlement isn’t new
and it can’t just be stopped. It is our UN obligation, and it’s our human duty!”
Erin Cooper:
“I hope that the majority can take politics out of the equation when reading these stories, and just try to understand and be empathetic.”
Deema Natshe:
“Jordan is full of Syrian families, we’re trying our best to help them feel like they’re home.”
Jinan Deena:
“...Thank you HONY for being a light in the world and showing us a different perspective. I was just in Jordan at the refugee camps as well and I know these people want nothing more than a chance at a good life for their children.”
Elizabeth Getachew:
“I’m sitting in a Metro ride crying my eyes out in public, reading this!”