Anchorage Commemorates World Refugee Day with Festive Photos

During the World Refugee Day celebration at the Grow North Farm in Anchorage’s Mountain View neighborhood, people from around the world gathered to honor the journeys and achievements of the refugee community in Alaska. Hosted by Catholic Social Services, this annual event is a mix of fun and educational activities, as described by Issa Spatrisano, Alaska state refugee coordinator at CSS. She mentioned that the event provides a local opportunity to celebrate the diversity of people and clients who have arrived in Alaska, with a record number of arrivals in the last two years.

Last year, CSS welcomed around 500 new arrivals to the state, with a significant increase attributed to the war in Ukraine. This number is much higher compared to the historic average of about 150 people per year. During the event, cultural performances were presented on stage, showcasing talent from different parts of the world. From singing to playing musical instruments, attendees were treated to a variety of entertainment that highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the refugee community.

The celebration also included activities such as selling fresh produce from the Grow North Farm, where Bhai Subba, a refugee originally from Bhutan, was seen rinsing spinach that she later sold. Children participated in the festivities by blowing bubbles and watching performances. The Crow Creek Pipes and Drums entertained the audience with their musical talents, while individuals like 14-year-old Sulamita Kotsiura from Ukraine warmed up before her performance on the bandura. The event was a true celebration of diversity and resilience, honoring the strength and contributions of the refugee community in Alaska.