Working with African Immigrants and Refugees

Posted by on November 14, 2003

[posted from AFRICOM listerv]

Working with African Immigrants and Refugees

A Conference and Workshop presented by The African Immigrant and Refugee Foundation and Montgomery College Diversity Management Institute

DATE: Tuesday, November 18, 2003
LOCATION: Theater Arts Auditorium,
Montgomery College, Rockville Campus
TIME: 8:00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.
FEE: $90 (add $10 for CEU)

Morning Session: Conference
Panel 1: Refugees: The experiences of African refugees in the Metropolitan DC area;

Panel 2: Service Providers: The unique challenges presented by African refugees and immigrants to mental health, public health, and social service professionals;

Panel 3: Community Connections: The roles of schools, law enforcement, and the business community in integrating Africans into local communities.

Special presentation: An overview of recent changes in the immigration process.

Afternoon Session: Introductory Workshop

The workshop will explore answers to the question: How do people learn to understand one another when they do not share a common cultural experience? The objectives of the workshop are to:
* Develop awareness of African countries, cultures and ethnicities;
* Develop sensitivity in dealing with the different cultures and addressing barriers that impact interactions between newcomers and their hosts;
* Acquire interpersonal skills for working with Africans;
* Advance a plan of action for partnership between African refugees, service providers and other community groups.

Invited are public officials, Africa advocacy groups, educators, African refugees and immigrants, mental health professionals, social service providers, immigration lawyers, church and community leaders, landlords, and law enforcement officials.

A lunch buffet – A Taste of Africa – will be provided. African traditional dancers will perform. Continuing Education Credits are available.

Day of conference payment by check only will be accepted, but registration must be received by NOVEMBER 11.

Fax to: 703-780-6414 Ruth Anne Dawson, conference registrar
OR Email to: Airfound@aol.com