Refugee Rights Day: April 4th and Updates

We hope you’re keeping healthy and well. A quick update and information on upcoming events. Please let us know of additional resources, trainings, and research you think members will be interested in. We’re always happy to hear from you!

Refugee Rights Day: April 4th

The Canadian Council for Refugees (CCR) is hosting an online event at 2:00pm  EST on April 4, 2020 to honour Refugee Rights Day. With the closing of the Canadian border to asylum seekers and uncertainties for those with precarious work permits, this is an especially important time to gather.

Refugee Rights Day Virtual Celebration April 4th @ 2:00pm EST

Webinar: Support the mental health of refugees and immigrants during COVID 19

The Immigrant and Refugee Mental Health Project is inviting you to an “Ask the Expert” online session on how to support the mental health of immigrants and refugees during COVID 19.

Wednesday, April 8th 2020, 2:30 -3:30p.m. EST

Register and learn more about the webinar. 

OTs making a difference in the lives of refugees through research and writing

OJNN member Sarah Klaas brought our attention to the excellent article written by Karen Whalley Hammell (2020) called Engagement in Living During the COVID 19 Pandemic and Ensuing Occupational Disruption. Drawing on Dr. Rachel Thibeault’s (2002, 2011) exceptional international work with people who have experienced trauma, violence and displacement, she outlines occupations that support resilience reconstructing a meaningful life during times of uncertainty and disruption:

• Centre – engaging in routine occupations that help to ground
• Contemplate – paying attention to the everyday by engaging in mindfulness activities, formal meditation or immersive experiences in the natural world
• Create – nourishing occupations that explore creativity such as art, drama, singing, music, baking, writing and imaginative play
• Connect – participating in occupations that foster belonging within families, groups of friends, and communities
• Contribute – giving occupations that support the wellbeing of those near and far

Stay well,

 

Carla Giddings OT Reg. (Ont.) & Sara Abdo Reg. OT (NS)

Occupational Justice for Newcomers Network Co-Chairs