(SACRAMENTO) – The California State Assembly has approved HR 23 by Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D – Sacramento), recognizing June 20, 2017 as World Refugee Day. This resolution recognizes the sacrifices and positive contributions refugees make in our nation and affirms California’s support for refugee communities throughout the state.
Across the globe, an estimated 20 people a minute escape persecution because of his or her race, religion, nationality, or political opinion. Between 1975 and 2015, California welcomed over 725,000 refugees to the Golden State. In 2016, nearly 8,000 new refugees called California home.
California maintains a proud history of diversity and inclusion by resettling refugees from around the world. The well-established refugee communities in California have significantly strengthened the worldwide economic positioning of the state and contributed to advancing California as the sixth largest economy in the world. World Refugee Day marks a key moment for the public to show support for resettled refugee families in local communities. This resolution affirms that the United States and California maintain a bipartisan commitment to promote the safety, health, and well-being of the millions of refugees and displaced persons who flee war and terror in search of peace, hope, and freedom.
“The very fabric of Sacramento is strengthened by the contributions of refugees into our state and in our community,” said Assemblymember McCarty. “HR 23 recognizes the importance of supporting refugees throughout our state and makes clear that refugees are welcome in California.
In honor of World Refugee Day, Assemblymember McCarty’s office collected essential necessities for refugee families. Items donated, such as cleaning supplies, school supplies, and pots and pans were distributed through Sacramento’s five resettlement agencies – International Rescue Committee Sacramento, World Relief Sacramento, Opening Doors, Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, and Lao Family Community Development.
As part of McCarty’s California Welcomes Refugees package, McCarty has authored notable legislation to expand educational and employment opportunities for refugees and was also able to secure $10 million in the 2017-18 state budget to provide additional support services for refugee children throughout California.
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Kevin McCarty represents California’s 7th Assembly District, which include the cities of Sacramento, West Sacramento and unincorporated Sacramento County. McCarty serves as Chair of the Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance.