National Statement by President Obama on 2014 World Refugee Day by Gary Kopycinski on June 20, 2014 Gary Kopycinski Author More in National: Rep. Kelly Condemns FDA Approval of Flavored E-Cigarettes May 6, 2026 Wisconsin Legislative Black Caucus Introduces Constitutional Amendment to Ban Slavery in Wisconsin February 24, 2026 Martha Washington’s Enslaved Maid Ona Judge Made a Daring Escape to Freedom – but the National Park Service Has Erased Her Story From Philadelphia Exhibit February 14, 2026 Washington, DC–(ENEWSPF)–June 20, 2014. Today I join people around the world in commemorating World Refugee Day. It is an opportunity to honor the resilience of those who flee violence and persecution and the dedication of those who help them.