Abstract
Forced migration has become a significant issue in the US, especially under the current administration, which implemented policies that severely affected the lives of refugees and other legal immigrants. Various populations, including Afghan parolees, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders from Haiti and other countries are facing heightened uncertainty, restrictive immigration policies, and limited opportunities for protection and support. Community-based organizations and academic experts have become essential in filling the gaps left by the government, providing crucial services such as access to healthcare, education, legal advice, and housing. Their collaboration is vital in ensuring refugees and immigrants’ well-being and their integration in the community. For instance, health fairs targeting these populations serve as a direct intervention to address their immediate needs, offering services such as health screenings, health education, vaccinations, and mental health support. It also provides a platform for connecting with community resources that could help them navigate the complexities of life in the U.S. This paper focuses on a case study of a 2025 health fair initiative for refugees and immigrants organized in a midwestern community in the US. This service-driven event demonstrates the profound impact that the partnership between the academic and the nonprofit sectors can have on the vulnerable members of the immigrant community. It emphasizes that while federal policies may change, the commitment of local academic institutions and nonprofit organizations could significantly improve the lives of those affected by forced migration. Lessons learned and recommendations for education and practice are explored.
Presenters
Mioara DiaconuProfessor, Associate Director of Academic Affairs and Strategic Planning, School of Social Work, Western Michigan University, Michigan, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Vectors of Society and Culture
KEYWORDS
Refugees, Immigrants, Health, Forced Migration
