New York, NY, June 4, 2024 — The ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ (̽»¨¾«Ñ¡) is proud to announce that it will be hosting the fifth annual "States Lay the Foundation 2024" Summit on June 7. This year's event, themed "The Story Behind the Policy," will bring together bipartisan legislators, advocates, and community leaders to explore the stories that unite us in introducing, advocating for, enacting, and implementing legislation that supports the world's most vulnerable people in their journey to rebuild their lives in the U.S.
With its global leadership in humanitarian aid and refugee resettlement, the ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ has seen the critical role that state-level policy plays in supporting those fleeing persecution and violence. State elected leaders are on the front lines of serving their communities, witnessing the impact of inconsistent federal policies coupled with refugees' eagerness and determination to rebuild their lives.
The summit aims to shed light on these stories and initiatives that bring legislators together to advance measures in their states that welcome the persecuted and vulnerable, affirm and protect resettlement infrastructure, and invest in the services that contribute to the integration of newly arrived refugees in their states and communities.
Attendees will hear from diverse and bipartisan panels of legislators who have successfully introduced and implemented measures to protect resettlement infrastructure, create welcoming environments for refugees, and invest in integration services. Guests will explore what ignited their interest in this work and how this spark can translate to engaging incumbent or newly elected leaders in the time that will follow this pivotal election year.
Genevieve Kessler, ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ Director of State Advocacy, underscores the ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡'s pivotal role in the summit:
"The 'States Lay the Foundation' Summit, organized by the ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡, provides a unique platform for policymakers, advocates, and community leaders to share best practices, discuss challenges, and create partnerships that will lead to more effective policies. The ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ aims to encourage greater bipartisan support for refugee resettlement and integration by exploring the personal stories that inspire these efforts."
The summit will also feature a keynote address by David Miliband, CEO of the ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡, who will share his insights from years of leading humanitarian efforts and advocating for refugee rights.
The event will be held virtually on June 7 from 12 - 2pm EDT. Interested attendees can register for the