This morning Refugee Week 2016 was officially launched, and, excitingly, the launch was held at the old Rozelle Hospital, Callan Park which is where a new Day Centre for Refugees will be opening soon. Our own Justice and Peace Promoter, Fr Peter Smith has been working with Leichhardt (now Inner West) Council for many months to help get this wonderful project off the ground.

It was an amazing launch with two proud refugee women hosting the event, rousing music from the Choir of Love and a forum of amazingly talented and generous young refugees. We heard moving speeches by Refugee Council of Australia President, Phil Glendinning, former Leichhardt Mayor, Darcy Byrne and NSW Premier, Mike Baird, amongst others! The launch is also the time when humanitarian awards for work with refugees and asylum seekers are given out. The passion and in many cases the courage of all kinds of people to show solidarity, love and respect to those in vulnerable and painful positions was inspiring.

Former Mayor of Leichhardt Coucnil, Darcy Byrne

See our Facebook Page for more photos of the launch.

For information, Refugee Week events and much more see: http://www.refugeeweek.org.au

For a little background on the Callan Park Refugee Centre see: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/inner-west/leichhardt-council-moves-to-open-a-refugee-day-centre-in-callan-park-with-advocates-and-church-groups-on-board/news-story/37b1b95f4ada5d6f2a7bc30cea636f8e