Refugee Mural - 2000-2001

Since the end of World War II, Catholic Charities Migration and Refugee Services has helped more than 20,000 people from 27 countries begin new lives in Connecticut. They also provide a range of health education programs on HIV/AIDS and other critical issues to countless underserved populations that come through their doors on a weekly basis.

These refugees still flee religious, political, and ethnic persecution in their native lands. Catholic Charities Migration and Refugee Services provides them with vital resettlement assistance on housing, education, employment and public health.

During 2000-2001, a dedicated group of young artists from various refugee backgrounds, under the guidance of CCfH mural artist Carlos Hernández-Chávez planned, designed, and painted an inspiring mural titled, "River of Memories, River of Hope." The powerful new mural can be seen in the lobby of Catholic Charities Migration and Refugee Services in Hartford, CT. A companion resource booklet printed in five languages is now available from the Community Distribution Center (cdc) and commemorates their struggle and heroism. This new health information brochure designed by Concerned Citizens for Humanity (CCfH) provides them with important information on infectious disease and gives basic advice on living safe, risk-free lives in their new land.