World Refugee Day
Join agencies across the state as we honor refugees in our community and around the world.
World Refugee Day was held globally for the first time on June 20, 2001, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees—the United Nations treaty that essentially defined who a refugee is.
Now each year June 20 is a day dedicated to honoring refugees and an “occasion to build empathy and understanding and to recognize their resilience in rebuilding their lives,” as explained on the UNHCR World Refugee Day site.
Below are events happening across the state to commemorate this day, and we will continue to update this page with more events happening near you!
If you attend an event and/or share your experience on social media, tag us @MORefugeeOffice on Facebook and @mo.refugee.office on Instagram.
For other upcoming events and volunteer or donation opportunities, check out our latest Get Involved blog!
Columbia
Hosted by City of Refuge
Join City of Refuge for their second annual Summer Market featuring refugee and local artisans!
This free event is centered around supporting refugees and coming together as a community. Food and handmade items will be available for purchase, along with activities for kids and multi-cultural entertainment.
Friday, June 20, 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
City of Refuge
10 N. Garth Ave, Columbia, MO 65203
Joplin
A Benefit for RAISE
Join RAISE for a benefit concert! All proceeds from this event will go to support the vital work RAISE does in the Joplin community.
Tickets are $15 dollars in advance, $20 at the door.
Saturday, June 21 at 6:00 p.m.
The Roxy Event Center
102 S Joplin Ave, Joplin, MO
St. Louis
Hosted by the International Institute of St. Louis
Join IISTL for a special edition of their bi-weekly Community Bazaar! The event has moved outside for the summer, and food and drinks will be available for purchase. Build connections and enjoy a unique lunch experience this World Refugee Day and every other Friday for the rest of the summer.
Friday, June 20 at 12:00-2:00 p.m.
International Institute of St. Louis
3401 Arsenal Street, St. Louis, MO 63118
St. Louis
Hosted by the Welcome Neighbor STL
In honor of World Refugee Day, Welcome Neighbor is hosting a fundraiser dinner, an event dedicated to assisting their organization in its efforts to support refugee families in the St. Louis community. This gathering invites you to enjoy delicious food, meaningful conversations, and the opportunity to connect with both old and new friends. From cultural exchange to simply celebrating life together, the evening promises to be a memorable experience.
Friday, June 20 at 5:30-9:00 p.m.
First Unitarian Church
5007 Waterman Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63108
Kansas City, MO
Hosted by Della Lamb Community Services
El Torreon Presents: "Keys for a Cause" with Della Lamb! Get ready to tap your feet, drink some drinks, and sing along to some great tunes while supporting Della’s vital work in refugee resettlement, early education, and youth services.
Friday, June 20 from 7:00 - 10:00 p.m.
El Torreon
3101 Gillham Plaza, Kansas City, MO 64109
Kansas City, MO
Hosted by Della Lamb Community Services
Come celebrate and honor the resilience and spirit of refugees around the world. You’ll learn more about the journey of refugee resettlement in the U.S., hear stories of hope and courage, and spend time in prayer. All are welcome to join in solidarity and compassion with those who have been displaced.
Friday, June 20 from 6:30-8:00 p.m.
The Gallery at Jacob's Well Church
1617 W 42nd St, Kansas City, MO 64111
Kansas City, MO
Hosted by Local Service Providers
Celebrate World Refugee Day and community as a super power at this free event hosted by local organizations. With entertainment, food, activities, it promises to be fun for the whole family!
Sunday, June 22 from 2:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Garrison Community Center
1124 E 5th Street, Kansas City, MO 64106
Kansas City, MO
Hosted by Jewish Vocational Service (JVS)
Join JVS for an information session to learn more about refugees, immigrants and the work they do in Kansas City. Hear from JVS staff and current volunteers how you can get involved to support their organization. RSVP via email to volunteer@jvskc.org.
Saturday, June 28 from 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
JVS Office
4600 The Paseo, Kansas City, MO 64110