06/16/2026
How to Welcome Refugees into Your Local Community
Welcoming refugees into a community involves far more than providing housing or basic resources—it is about fostering a sense of belonging and home. Refugees often arrive after experiencing displacement, loss, and significant transition, and the process of rebuilding life in a new country takes time, patience, and community support.
Belonging is a part of a process, not a moment
When refugees arrive in a new country, they often begin the complex process of adapting to a new culture, social system, and often a new language. Belonging does not happen immediately; it develops gradually through relationships, routines, and participation in community life.
This adjustment period often includes grief. During the first year, many refugees experience a combination of excitement, stress, and uncertainty as they learn how to navigate unfamiliar systems and environments. Over time, the permanence of the transition may become more apparent, leading to feelings of loss related to family, cultural traditions, familiar routines, and a previous sense of home. These experiences are a natural part of resettlement and adaptation.
Identity: a process of deconstruction and reconfigurement
The process of resettlement often involves both preserving and reshaping identity. Refugees may initially hold tightly to their cultural identity and country of origin while gradually integrating aspects of their new environment into their sense of self.
Over time, many refugees begin to develop a layered identity that honors their cultural heritage while also creating connection to their new community and home. This process unfolds gradually and often requires navigating multiple identities simultaneously while learning new social norms, systems, and rights within a new society. Understanding identity as an evolving process can help communities respond with greater patience, empathy, and support.
Language shapes belonging
The language used in everyday interactions can significantly influence whether refugees feel welcomed and included. Even well-intentioned questions may unintentionally reinforce a sense of difference or exclusion.
For example, asking, “Where are you from?” may unintentionally suggest that someone does not fully belong in their current community. Reframing the question to “Where do you call home?” can affirm belonging and recognize the validity of a person’s present home and identity.
Belonging is also reinforced through daily interactions that communicate respect, inclusion, and encouragement to participate fully in community life.
The role of friendship and community connection
Friendship and personal connection play an important role in helping refugees feel welcomed. Communities can foster belonging by intentionally creating opportunities for relationship-building through shared activities, meals, conversations, and cultural events.
Focusing on shared human experiences rather than differences can help build meaningful connections. Experiences related to family life, food, education, work, safety, and community are often universal points of connection across cultures.
When refugees are included in community life and relationships, they are more likely to develop a stronger sense of belonging and stability.
Practical ways to foster belonging
Invite Participation: Encourage refugees to participate in local activities, school events, neighborhood gatherings, and community organizations.
Share Meals: Food can serve as a meaningful way to build relationships and exchange cultural traditions.
Celebrate Cultures: Learn about the cultures represented in the community and create opportunities for cultural exchange and celebration.
Listen Actively: Ask thoughtful, open-ended questions and create space for refugees to share their experiences and perspectives.
Encourage Agency: Help refugees understand their rights, opportunities, and available community resources so they can navigate their new environment with confidence.
Welcoming refugees is not a one-time act, but an ongoing commitment to inclusion, relationship-building, and community support. The process of rebuilding life in a new country often involves grief, adaptation, and the gradual reconstruction of identity and belonging.
Communities that foster connection, communicate from a place of inclusion, and emphasize shared experiences can help refugees feel respected, valued, and at home. This work requires empathy, intentionality, and patience, but it strengthens both refugees and the communities that welcome them.
