Backup Documents 06/09/2009 Item # 4C
4C
PROCLAMA rION
WHEREAS, there are more than 36 million refugees and displaced people around the world,
and the number of refugees and displaced people worldwide has doubled during
the last decade: and,
WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Department of State, it is estimated that more than 80%
of refugees and displaced people are women and children: and,
WHEREAS, June 20, 2009 marks the ninth annual recognition and celebration of World
Refugee Day: and,
WHEREAS, the United States has long been both a symbol of hope and a source of
substantial aid for refugees around the world and, in partnership with private
voluntary organizations and government agencies, the American people have
provided generous humanitarian assistance, to millions of persons dislocated by
natural disaster, war, or by civil strife,' ant;/,
WHEREAS, the State of Florida has successfully resettled thousands of refugees over the
years and many have become U.S. Citizens and influential members of our
society,' and,
WHEREAS, the State of Florida and its municipalities remain firmly committed to a proud
tradition of assisting and welcoming r~fug"s and displaced people to our
communitiu,' and,
WHEREAS, we salute the incredible tenacity and strength of the refugees and displaced
people who have overcome incredible odds and hardships. We thank all the
voluntary agencies, our local and state governments and all the dedicated
providers who work tirelessly to help refugees integrate into our society, laws
and culture,' and,
WHEREAS, we salute and welcome the refugee s and displaced peoples spirit to strive for a
better and a peaceful life, and June 20, 2009 we recognize the plight of the
millions of refugees who have been forced to flee their homelands, seeking
freedom and safety from persecution.
~
NOW THEREFORE, be it proclaimed by the Board of County Commissioners of Collier County,
Florida, that June 20, 2009, be designated as
WORLD REFUGEE DA Y
DONE AND ORDERED THIS 9th Day of June, 2009.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
COUIER COUNTY, FLORIDA
~~
DONN. ~ALA, CHAIRMAN
ATTEST: