Jacqueline Uwumeremyi fled from the Democratic Republic of Congo to South Africa because of violence. After facing constant xenophobia because of her refugee status, she and her five children were finally resettled in Boise, Idaho, in 2018. There she was warmly embraced by local church members and other neighbors, including her close friends Pastor Jenny Hirst and neighbor Chris Johnson. Watch as the three talk about their first encounters and what they continue to gain from their deepening friendship.
The IRC’s “Stories of Welcome” series showcases the growing bonds between refugees and their new American friends. But even as these transformative friendships are taking root, the Trump Administration has shut the door on refugees and is threatening America’s legacy of welcome. Watch more of these moving stories and learn how you can take action.
