Saint John Community Unites for World Refugee Day with “Walk with Refugees” Event
For IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 20th, 2025
SAINT JOHN, NB – In recognition of World Refugee Day, the Saint John Newcomers Centre, in partnership with YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick, PRUDE Inc., Saint John Local Immigration Partnership (LIP), and ConnexionWorks, hosted a special “Walk with Refugees” to honor the strength and resilience of refugees in our community.
The event began at 12:30 PM in King Square, where community members, leaders, and supporters gathered in solidarity before walking together to City Hall. The walk aimed to raise awareness about the journeys and contributions of refugees, while fostering a sense of unity and inclusion across Saint John.
Councillor Paula Radwan, representing the City of Saint John, shared, “We are averaging about 400 refugees coming into the City of Saint John every year. I want to thank many of you for going above and beyond in helping not just the refugees but all newcomers… It doesn’t matter whether you’re an Indo-Canadian, Egyptian-Canadian, or from wherever—finally, you’re Canadian. We’re stronger together than we are apart. I encourage everybody not just to be the friendly Saint Johners that we usually are, but to go a step further. When you meet somebody new… ask them to a coffee. Give them your phone number. It’s that extra step that matters the most when somebody’s new to the city. As soon as your feet step here, you’re Canadian and you should be treated as such”.
Heather Acker of ConnexionWorks added, “We are a community of opportunity, and that means that anybody from any part of the world can start and grow a life here supported by the community that we love so dearly… Our roots grow deep, but our trees are expanding. All the cultural groups need to be aware that we want to hear from you. You bring the beauty to our community. Today is a day of community”.
Mohamed Bagha, Executive Director of the Saint John Newcomers Centre, reflected on the city’s history and ongoing commitment: “Canada started with refugees right here on this harbor, when the Loyalists fled the American war… One thing Canada is known for is its compassion… When you think about it, this is what makes Canada great… We all stand hand in hand to ensure that we provide the best of the best services available and that we create welcoming communities. We want everyone, regardless of the color of their skin or how they got here, to feel that they belong right here in Saint John”.
Kathryn Melvin of Saint John Local Immigration Partnership concluded, “World Refugee Day is really about honouring those who have strength and resilience. Saint John is a place that welcomes refugees. We stand with them, we support them, and we’re creating a community where we recognize that everyone belongs, that everyone has a place”.
World Refugee Day is a global observance dedicated to honoring refugees’ perseverance and achievements. In Saint John, this annual event is a testament to the city’s commitment to supporting newcomers and building a welcoming, inclusive community for all.
The organizers thank everyone who participated and encourage the community to continue supporting and welcoming refugees as they build new lives in Saint John.
Media Contact:
Sochi Azuh
Communications Specialist
Saint John Newcomers Centre
sochi.azuh@sjnewcomers.ca
(506)271-4462
Erin Lawlor
Manager of Marketing and Communications
YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick
e.lawlor@yswnb.ca | 506-608-6200