The Thanksgiving Challenge
The Working Group on Displaced Populations (or better known as WGDP) is entering its second active year at George Mason University. We acknowledge that there are many definitions of a displaced person in all fields including academia, politics and practitioners; however, for our purposes, a displaced person is anyone who has fled their home for fear or want. The group was started as one of many steps to persuade GMU administration to allow a Center for Displaced Populations to open here at George Mason University. The ultimate goal of the student organization is to foster and consolidate support for the creation of the Center from students, faculty, prospective students, community members, and outside groups. The student organization is also trying to raise awareness concerning the conditions that displaced persons endure and the process of resettlement. By increasing awareness we hope to create a more welcoming and tolerant university environment.
Considering our goals of further membership recruitment and extended outreach, we welcome the involvement of students at all levels of higher education and we encourage further involvement of George Mason University’s faculty and staff. Whether one is interested in joining our general membership, partnering with us on future events, connecting us with community organizations that could use our help and advocacy, or speaking at a meeting or event about their personal experience with displacement, we welcome you! If you are interested in working with us in any of these capacities, contactact us at [email protected].