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Quotes About
Immigrants and Refugees
Check out these quotes about immigrants and refugees from presidents, activists, writers, faith leaders, and more. Whether you're looking for inspiration or insight, these wise words speak to the heart of the immigrant experience.
Last updated April 2025
Warsan Shire
"No one leaves home unless home is the mouth of a shark."
We lead the world because, unique among nations, we draw our people — our strength — from every country and every corner of the world. And by doing so we continuously renew and enrich our nation.
Pope Francis
“Migrants and refugees are not pawns on the chessboard of humanity. They are children, women, and men who leave or who are forced to leave their homes for various reasons, who share a legitimate desire for knowing and having, but above all for being, more.”
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George Washington
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Jorge Ramos
Refugees are mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, children, with the same hopes and ambitions as us; except that a twist of fate has bound their lives to a global refugee crisis on an unprecedented scale.
Krish O'Mara Vignarajah
"We welcome refugees, not because they are American — but because we are American."
Krish's storyLooking for more than quotes about immigrants and refugees?
For more than 85 years, Global Refuge has welcomed those seeking refuge — upholding a legacy of compassion and grace for people in crisis.
We walk alongside individuals, families, and children as they begin their new lives in the United States. Here's how you can help us support refugees and other immigrants:
- Advocate: Use your voice to champion the work of welcome and speak out against harmful policies.
- Volunteer: Individuals, communities, companies, and faith-based groups are essential to the work of welcome.
- Pray: Our faith relations team has created a number of resources for congregations.
- Give: Your gifts will help us advocate for immigrant and refugee rights, protect children, and expand our programs to accommodate a growing need for our services.
Ways to Give
Make a difference today.
The generous support of our individual and corporate donors provides Global Refuge with vital resources to support refugees and other immigrants.
Give NowFrequently Asked Questions
What are some powerful quotes about immigrants?
Powerful quotes about immigrants celebrate their strength, perseverance, and impact on society. From poets like Warsan Shire to presidents like George Washington, these quotes capture the moral and cultural importance of welcoming those in search of safety and a better life.
Why do immigration quotes matter today?
Quotes about immigrants and refugees matter because they humanize complex policy debates and uplift universal values like dignity, compassion, and justice. They serve as reminders that immigration is not just political—it's deeply personal and profoundly human.
Who are some famous people who have spoken about immigration?
Many influential figures have spoken powerfully about immigration, including President Ronald Reagan, Khaled Hosseini, and Krish O'Mara Vignarajah. Their words inspire empathy and encourage action in support of refugees and immigrants worldwide.
What did Pope Francis say about immigrants and refugees?
Pope Francis has consistently called on global leaders and citizens alike to welcome immigrants and refugees with compassion and respect. He’s said, “Migrants and refugees are not pawns on the chessboard of humanity,” and urged us to build “a culture of encounter.”
What can I do to help immigrants and refugees right now?
You can support organizations like Global Refuge by donating, volunteering, sharing online, advocating for humane policies, and amplifying refugee voices through quotes or storytelling.