Asylum Seekers Coming to Albany

Daniel Butterworth, executive director of Refugee & Immigrant Support Services of Emmaus (RISSE) in Albany, notes that the Capital District has already seen an influx of asylum seekers from the Southern border, and expects to see more coming. He explains the differences between asylum seekers and refugees, and says that local organizations and government offices are creating a coalition to coordinate a compassionate and sustainable welcome. Learn about how RISSE is seeking bilingual Spanish/English staff members, and various ways that volunteers can help in their programs. Also hear about RISSE’s plan for International Refugee Day, on June 20th, to air a screening of a film about the challenges for people resettling in Utica, and the benefits to the community from the “new neighbors.” For information, see www.risse-albany.org. Produced by Brea Barthel for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.