If we believe that a person seeking refuge is to be pitied, feared, despised, and looked down upon, we are doing ourselves a disservice.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of empathy towards those seeking refuge rather than judgment or contempt.
Clemantine Wamariya articulates the essential human value of compassion in her quote, suggesting that viewing refugees with pity, fear, or disdain not only harms them but also detracts from our own humanity. Instead of looking down on these individuals, we should recognize their struggles as a reflection of a global issue that requires our empathy and understanding. This perspective invites us to support those in need and fosters a more compassionate society.
In practice
During a speech addressing the refugee crisis, this quote could remind the audience of the importance of empathy.
As a child growing up in refugee camps, life taught me that many things were impossible. My older sister, Claire, taught me otherwise when her strength and resilience made the impossible possible in the way she worked, behaved, and took control of our lives.
The great powers of the world may have done wonders in giving the world an industrial and military look but the great gift still has to come from Africa - giving the world a more human face.
Blushing is the most peculiar and most human of all expressions.
Beware how you take away hope from another human being.
In their greatest hour of need, the world failed the people of Rwanda.
The destiny of world civilization depends upon providing a decent standard of living for all mankind.
We may be different races and religions but we are all part of the same human family
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.