Refugees Are Finding New Homes in Alabama

refugees welcome signPhoto byMaria TenevaonUnsplash

The United States has a long history of welcoming refugees fleeing violence and persecution. While the overall number of immigrants admitted in recent years has fluctuated, 2023 saw a significant increase. A Stacker article explored where these refugees are coming from and how Alabama fits into the national picture.

Refugee Arrivals on the Rise

The U.S. has resettled over 3 million refugees in the past five decades. After a period of lower admissions under the Trump administration, the Biden administration has raised the cap on refugees allowed into the country. In the 2023 fiscal year, over 60,000 refugees arrived in the U.S., a dramatic increase compared to the prior two years.

February 2024: A Look at Global Trends

In February 2024, the top three countries of origin for refugees admitted to the U.S. were Congo, Syria, and Afghanistan. Each nation faces unique challenges that force its citizens to seek safety abroad. The Democratic Republic of Congo has been embroiled in civil wars for decades, displacing millions both internally and externally. Syria's long-running civil war has led to over 5 million refugees fleeing to neighboring countries, with millions more displaced within the country itself. Afghanistan has grappled with instability for decades, with many seeking refuge in neighboring Pakistan and Iran.

Alabama's Role in Refugee Resettlement

While the national data shows Congo, Afghanistan, and Venezuela as the top origins for refugees in February 2024, Alabama resettled refugees from a wider range of countries. Here's a breakdown of the top countries of origin for refugees arriving in Alabama since October 2023:

• Guatemala: 22 refugees resettled in Alabama, with California receiving the most nationally (270).
• Syria: 18 refugees resettled in Alabama, with New York receiving the most nationally (673).
• Congo: 11 refugees resettled in Alabama, with Kentucky receiving the most nationally (893).
• Somalia: 10 refugees resettled in Alabama, with Minnesota receiving the most nationally (419).
• El Salvador & Venezuela (tie): 8 refugees each resettled in Alabama. California received the most refugees from El Salvador nationally (84), while Florida received the most from Venezuela (501).

Looking Ahead

This data provides a snapshot of refugee resettlement trends in Alabama. As the national picture continues to evolve, Alabama will likely continue to play a role in welcoming refugees seeking a safe and secure future.