Franklin County marks World Refugee Day as advisory council chair recounts her refugee journey

Franklin County formally recognized World Refugee Day on June 20 as members of the county’s Welcoming Advisory Council addressed the Board of Commissioners.

Nadia Kasin, who identified herself as chair of the Franklin County Welcoming Advisory Council and co‑founder and co‑director of US Together, said the yearly observance “honors the courage, resilience, and contributions of people who have been forced to flee their homes because of war, persecution, or violence.” She said the recognition is personal: “Thirty‑two years ago, I arrived in the United States as a refugee from Ukraine,” and described learning a new language and rebuilding her life before later working to support other newcomers.

Kasin told the commissioners that refugees and immigrants strengthen local communities, saying they are “business owners, health care professionals, educators, skilled workers, community leaders, taxpayers, neighbors, and friends.” She urged continued investment in programs and policies that support newcomers’ ability to participate and thrive in Franklin County.

A county commissioner thanked the advisory council for its work and urged the county to revive an annual public forum that had previously brought broader community participation. “Your work is seen and valued,” the commissioner said, arguing that public forums and regular reporting help distribute factual information and counter political distortion.

Commissioner Crowley also addressed the council, thanking members for recognizing World Refugee Day and noting the role of youth programs at local organizations. Crowley pointed to a partnership with Greater Columbus World Affairs that engages students in learning about refugees and immigrants, and encouraged continued outreach to schools and community groups.

The recognition included brief procedural remarks about logistics for photographs and podium use for visiting youth in the audience. The board thanked Nadia Kasin, Guadalupe Velasquez and Kim Ench for their participation and for the work of the Welcoming Advisory Council.

The ceremony closed with officials urging continued public engagement and information‑sharing about refugee and immigrant contributions in Franklin County.