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Refugee Dinner Raises Funds
Dale Perkins, Victoria
Volume 30 Issue 7, 8 & 9 | Posted: October 10, 2016
On Sunday, August 28th, approximately 70 people attended a fund-raising dinner in support of Central Africa Refugee Association's efforts to support a refugee claimant's request to migrate to Victoria. The Burundi family we are supporting are called the Yamuremyes, two parents and three children, who now are surviving in neighbouring Rwanda, a camp of over 70,000 people, almost all from Burundi. They have fled the persecution and violence of Burundi's repressive government, and many are desperately seeking asylum in other countries willing to receive them.
On Sunday, August 28th, approximately 70 people attended a fund-raising dinner in support of Central Africa Refugee Association's efforts to support a refugee claimant's request to migrate to Victoria. The Burundi family we are supporting are called the Yamuremyes, two parents and three children, who now are surviving in neighbouring Rwanda, a camp of over 70,000 people, almost all from Burundi. They have fled the persecution and violence of Burundi's repressive government, and many are desperately seeking asylum in other countries willing to receive them.
Canada is one such welcoming State with an international reputation of a compassionate country, especially now with policies and practices which have welcomed the resettlement of 25,000 and more refugees from Syria and Iraq. However, now the Canadian government is limiting other refugees who might be allowed into our country, by imposed strict quotas for refugees wishing to re-settle here. Africa is such a continent where the restriction apply, and refugees from many countries in Africa struggle to have their claims recognized by the Canadian Government.
It was with that context fully in view that CARA launched it's appeal to welcome the Yamuremye family into our city and province. We have launched a fund-raising drive to secure sufficient funds to allow us to welcome our Burundian family. We are working closely with the Victoria Intercultural Association (ICA), which, in turn, has been granted a certain quota allowed for African refugees.
Last Sunday was a first fund-raising dinner CARA has attempted, and judging from the results we hope to continue our efforts in the future. Happily we were encouraged and supported by the Esquimalt United Church, and our dinner was held in its Rainbow Kitchen, adjoining the church.
A group of wonderful women from the Nyampinga Rwanda Association prepared a typical African dinner, and everyone appreciated the food and entertainment provided during the time we spent together. Everyone had rave reviews for the food served, and adults, teens and small children had a wonderful time enjoying the food and fellowship.
If readers would like to support CARA's initiative they can direct their support to CARA, by contacting its treasurer, the Rev. Dale Perkins, (250) 370-9682 or writing an e-mail note – dperkins@islandnet.com. Tax receipts are available.
Dale Perkins, Victoria