February 24, 2022 - Like the whole world, we at Refugee & Immigrant Transitions are horrified at the unfolding Russian invasion of Ukraine. We stand against war, and are hoping for the swift de-escalation of this conflict.
All wars create death and violence, destroy families and communities, and uproot people forever from their homes. Many of us at RIT, whether program participants or team members, have come from families who have fled war, or have even experienced war first-hand. The heartbreak is incalculable and lasts generations.
We send our love, solidarity, and concern to all who are fleeing war, or worrying for their loved ones right now.
For the past 40 years, RIT has been helping war survivors from all over the world adjust to their new home in the Bay Area and find community. Refugee resettlement is a long process, but we expect that some of the people fleeing Ukraine, might eventually arrive to the Bay Area. They will find a welcoming community here at RIT.
Over the years, RIT has been adapting our services to the needs of our neighbors from all over the world. Last year, the tragedy in Afghanistan informed many of our service offerings, and these efforts are continuing. We work with communities long-term, as we also stand ready to welcome others.
It's an extremely scary time right now. We know that our community will come together, as it always has, to get through this. Thank you for supporting each other.