BCNU Stands with Refugees Facing Discrimination and Injustice Amid the Russian Invasion of Ukraine

In response to the impact of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine on civilians, the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) has confirmed that the escalating danger has forced more than four million refugees from Ukraine into neighbouring countries as well as to safer areas within the country. These are people who have been compelled to flee their homes in search of what the UNHCR describes as safety, protection, and assistance.

This protection and support must extend to all refugees fleeing war and conflict, however there are far too many instances when this does not occur. In the case of Ukraine, many people of colour have been subjected to discrimination and violence when attempting to flee the country. Furthermore, upon arrival in any number of European countries taking in refugees from the war in Ukraine, many people of colour continue to experience racist violence, a lack of adequate shelter and food, and policies that are hostile to their presence.

On March 21, to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi reflected on the work necessary to dismantle barriers to opportunities for refugees, displaced and stateless people, acknowledging that, "the war in Ukraine and the devastating humanitarian crisis it has caused also presents challenges and opportunities for continued commitment and diligence in the fight against racism and discrimination."

BCNU echoes the sentiments in this statement and stands with all refugees fleeing war and conflict.