Depending on where they settle, after an initial honeymoon period many refugees instead encounter anti-immigrant hostility and streets covered in snow. — Lisa Aronson Fontes Ph.D.
As a blessed person who has fewer problems on her plate, you need to find a way to help other people. As much as possible, dedicate yourself to reaching out to those who are deeply wounded, emotionally, and physically. One of the sectors that you can help is for the refugees. These individuals are considered as victims of war crimes. They are forced to vacate or leave their countries because of various reasons. As such, you can expect them to be extremely depressed and problematic.
For today’s article, we are going to provide you with a list of things to remember so that you can deal with them correctly. Take note that the way you deal with them will reflect who you are as a person. At the same time, it is also significant to know how to offer your help to them so that you will not end up offending them. Here are the top things to remember:
Learn About Their Stories
Before you introduce yourself to the refugees, be sure that you know who they are and where they came from. As much as possible, make an effort to learn more about their stories so that you will know how to relate with them properly. Failure to do this can give rise to many problems because you may end up offending them. At the same time, you will also see or encounter troubles in showing them your real intentions.
Their trauma is a result of not only the experiences at home, but also of what they went through during their flight. — Marianna Pogosyan Ph.D.
Ask Questions From Others
If there are things that are unclear on your part, be sure that you will talk to the other volunteers who are helping the refugees. Never assume anything as it can lead to a bad thing. Instead, make an effort to also connect with the other people in your team. Do not hesitate to ask questions or clarifications about the lives of the refugees or how to do things right. Be open to receiving new information so that you can become better at helping the war victims.
Avoid Racism
Since you are trying to volunteer in helping the refugees, then it is safe to say that you are not a racist. However, whether you admit it to yourself or not, there are times when you can be careless with your words and actions. Even if you do not have the intention of being a racist, you may say or do something that shows otherwise. As such, make an effort to be mindful of your actions and words to ensure that you will not hurt the refugees.
People who engage in more meaningful conversations, rather than small talk, have a greater sense of well-being. But small talk may be the path to having those deeper conversations. —
Conclusion
Refugees belong to the set of people who are considered as underprivileged. They are the ones who have suffered from the hands of oppressors. They need you to provide them with the right amount of help or support. Do not give up on reaching out to the refugees because they need you the most. Try to be patient in dealing with them, especially at times when they reject your help. The best thing to do is to understand their situation so that you can help them better.