July 20th, 2007

A tremendous effort during this past weekend has produced an amazing outcome. More specifically, the efforts of over 20 volunteers were able to create 10 beautiful homes for the Karen newcomers in Langley.

The special care and thoughtfulness of the volunteers made a big impact with the Karen, who arrived in their new homes with the beds made, toy boxes full of toys, furniture arranged, pictures on the wall, cupboards full of necessities and fridges full of food. Although the volunteers are exhausted, they did not hold back on the chance to create a new experience for the Karen- that is to be treated with human dignity.

Arriving in Langley brought an end to a long journey from their previous homes that they left behind in Burma. This journey began for the Karen when they were sent fleeing from their villages that came under attack from Burmese soldiers. These Karen fled to Thailand where they had been warehoused in camps, waiting for the Burmese military aggression to wane. However, over time the intensity and brutality of the military government only increased, making it impossible for the Karen to return home from the camps. With the hope of peace dimming and conditions in the camps deteriorating, the UN identified at risk refugees and recommended relocating them to a third country. 

The warm reception by Langley residents starkly contrasts the treatment by their Burmese neighbors who for so long have been hunting down the Karen like animals in their villages, or as they hide in the jungle, or sit defenseless in refugee camps. 

Since their arrival on Tuesday, spirits have been high for the new Langley residents. The first days have been full of jubilation as they have come to realize that their lives of fear, malnourishment and mere survival has ended. The courage that they depended on for so long to keep them alive is being transformed into zeal to learn English and Canadian ways. Receiving permanent residency is the first time the Karen refugees have been given any legal recognition by any country. 

Although arriving in Langley is the end of a long journey, it is also a fresh start. For the first time these Karen will begin to build their lives after spending so many years trying to just stay alive.