World Refugee Day

Event Details

Established by the United Nations in 2000 and first celebrated on June 20, 2001, World Refugee Day raises awareness of the plight of refugees throughout the world. The Austin celebration, sponsored by the Bullock Museum and member organizations of the Austin Refugee Roundtable, celebrates new American citizens and recognizes the courage and resilience of refugee families and individuals.

The commemoration of the United Nations' World Refugee Day at the Bullock Museum begins with a naturalization ceremony in the Texas Spirit Theater, where refugees will be sworn in and become American citizens. The public is invited to view the ceremony, but seating is limited. Following the ceremony a celebratory reception will commence in the Grand Lobby. We invite the public to join us for free samples of world cuisine, live music, and activities for families with kids of all ages!

If you'd like to learn more about refugee stories, look no further than this list, specially curated by Austin Public Library.

This program is made possible through the generosity of Gregg Philipson and Michelle Warech-Philipson.

Schedule of Events:

11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

• Discover what the journey of a refugee is like, from home country to the United States, through a learning game sponsored by Caritas of Austin and Refugee Services of Texas.
• Make a family-friendly craft with Austin Public Library and learn more about some of the cultures represented by refugees.
• Register to vote with the Austin Public Library.

12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

• Watch a naturalization Ceremony led by Federal Judge Robert Pitman. This is open to the public with limited seating.

1:00 p.m. 2:30 p.m.

• Sample global cuisine (while available).
• Experience a live musical performance by Wahab Rasooli and dance performances by Sonyashnyk and Jarajo.

The Bullock Museum, a division of the Texas State Preservation Board, is funded by Museum members, donors, and patrons, the Texas State History Museum Foundation, and the State of Texas.