Walking to freedom

At Felt Education 78% of our students have fled war, torture or trafficking, and they are striving to rebuild their lives, in particular they are trying to build a safe future for their children. Our students are among many refugees and immigrants who have embarked on a treacherous journey, often spanning thousands of miles on foot, in search of a safe place to call home. This article explores the hardships faced by these courageous individuals, the reasons behind their perilous journey, and the importance of creating a welcoming environment for them upon their arrival.

The Long Walk to Safety:

For countless refugees and immigrants, leaving their homes and embarking on an arduous journey spanning thousands of miles becomes the only option for survival. Faced with conflicts, persecution, violence, or dire economic circumstances, they often have no choice but to flee in search of safety and stability for themselves and their families.

These individuals endure unimaginable hardships as they traverse treacherous terrains, cross borders, and face numerous obstacles along the way. Many undertake these journeys on foot, enduring fatigue, hunger, extreme weather conditions, and the constant fear of exploitation or violence. Despite these perils, the alternative of staying in their homeland is often even more dangerous, leaving them with no choice but to undertake the arduous trek.

Seeking Safety over Peril:

The decision to leave one's home and embark on a journey fraught with risks reflects the desperate circumstances that refugees and immigrants face. Their motivation stems from the instinctive desire to protect their loved ones and offer them a better future. These individuals often leave behind everything they hold dear—families, friends, possessions, and their cultural roots—hoping to find safety and opportunities in a foreign land.

The dangers they face on their journey are significant, including human trafficking, exploitation, and the risk of death from accidents or exposure. Nevertheless, the pursuit of safety propels them forward, as they believe that enduring the hardships of migration is preferable to the constant threat of violence, persecution, or poverty back home.

Creating a Safe and Welcoming Environment:

Upon arrival in a new country, refugees and immigrants hope for a fresh start and a safe haven where they can rebuild their lives. As a society, it is our moral responsibility to extend compassion, understanding, and support to these individuals, ensuring they feel safe, valued, and welcomed.

Building inclusive communities that foster cultural exchange, language acquisition, and access to essential services is crucial. Governments, NGOs, and individuals can play an active role in offering assistance, resources, and integration programs that help newcomers adapt to their new surroundings. Education and employment opportunities should be made accessible, empowering refugees and immigrants to contribute positively to their host societies.

Furthermore, addressing the root causes of displacement and investing in conflict resolution, sustainable development, and poverty alleviation in regions affected by crises can help reduce the number of people forced to undertake perilous journeys in the first place.

The journey undertaken by refugees and immigrants, often spanning thousands of miles on foot, is a testament to their resilience, courage, and determination. It is born out of the desire for safety, stability, and a brighter future for themselves and their families. As a global community, we must recognize the perils they face and work collectively to create an environment where they feel safe, welcome, and empowered to rebuild their lives.

This is why at Felt Education we are putting our shoes on and walking to raise funds for our classes. Each member of the Board of Directors will walk 50 miles on their own sponsored walk. You can support them here: In Their Shoes (givebutter.com)