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, MO
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 Kindness Begins with Me and Monarch Immigrant Services
Celebrate World Refugee Day with a day of fun, including a pickleball tournament, cricket exhibition, world market, raffles, food and drinks.
Saturday, June 14, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Rockwell Beer Garden in Francis Park
5300 Donavan Ave, St. Louis, MO 63109
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
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
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.
Saturday, June 28 from 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
JVS Office
4600 The Paseo, Kansas City, MO 64110