WHEREAS, World Refugee Day, established by the United Nations in 2001, is observed annually to recognize the courage, resilience, and perseverance of refugees worldwide who have been compelled to flee their homelands due to conflict, violence, persecution, or natural disasters; and

WHEREAS, for many decades, refugees from a wide range of cultural, racial, ethnic, religious, and national backgrounds have made Virginia their home, seeking safety, opportunity, and a brighter future for themselves and their families while enriching the social, cultural, and civic fabric of the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, refugee-led organizations throughout Virginia work in partnership with public, private, and nonprofit sectors to strengthen communities and expand access to education, health care, employment, and other opportunities that support the well-being and success of all Virginians; and

WHEREAS, refugee and immigrant entrepreneurs and business owners contribute significantly to the economic growth, innovation, and vitality of communities across the Commonwealth by creating jobs, supporting local commerce, and investing in Virginia's future; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia remains committed to fostering welcoming and inclusive communities that uphold human dignity and promote mutual understanding, respect, equality, and shared opportunity for all residents;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize June 20, 2026, as WORLD REFUGEE DAY in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.