Solidarity Statement 

20 June 2023

Building a Welcoming World: Standing in Solidarity with Displaced People on World Refugee Day

On World Refugee Day, Operation Ukrainian Safe Haven honours the strength and resilience of 108 million people worldwide forced to escape persecution, conflict, and human rights abuses in search of safety and security. Every person has the right to seek safety, and it is our collective responsibility to embrace those who have been uprooted from their homes with compassion, and dignity.

Since 1980, Canada has played a vital role in providing a haven to over 1 million refugees.  For facts and figures on people seeking refuge in Canada, visit the United Nations Refugee Agency’s (UNHCR) site. You can find key data about people seeking asylum in Canada, their countries of origin, and the government’s ongoing efforts to address their needs effectively. By staying informed, Canadians can appreciate the challenges refugees face and acknowledge the positive impact they bring to Canada.

The Operation Ukrainian Safe Haven program highlights Canada’s dedication to assisting refugees and displaced people, particularly displaced Ukrainians affected by the war in Europe. The Operation Ukrainian Safe Haven project is a nationally coordinated communications initiative to bridge and link communications and resources with key stakeholders and settlement agencies involved with supporting Ukrainians coming to Canada. This includes setting and implementing national communication objectives, including referrals for housing offers, donations, volunteers, jobs, and other key orientation resources and communications from provinces and territories. Through this initiative, Canadian citizens and organizations have an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have experienced displacement, violence and intimidation.  

Get Involved

Welcoming and integrating refugees into Canadian society is a collective endeavor that extends beyond the efforts of the government. It is crucial for individuals, communities, and organizations across Canada to contribute to this cause. By volunteering, donating, or advocating for refugee rights, Canadians can actively participate in creating a welcoming environment and helping refugees rebuild their lives. 

Operation Ukrainian Safe Haven invites all Canadians to celebrate the diversity and cultural richness that refugees bring to Canada. Embracing their unique perspectives, talents, and experiences not only enriches our society but also promotes social cohesion and understanding.

Like to help? There are several ways you can show solidarity to displaced people in Canada on World Refugee Day:  

• Individual donors: donate through the Operation Ukranian Safe Haven donations portal
• Corporate donors: pledge your contributions here
• Get involved in local community events in your province:  
  • British Columbia 
  • Manitoba  
  • Ontario  
  • Saskatchewan
• Get insights on the scale and magnitude of displaced people globally on the United Nations Refugee Agency’s (UNHCR) website.