IRC Voices
Morena Baccarin, star of Deadpool and a voice for the International Rescue Committee, recently traveled to Colombia to meet Venezuelan refugees.
In a Jan. 24 opinion piece published by Newsweek, Morena warned that the economic crisis in Venezuela could produce more refugees than the war in Syria. She called on governments across South America and around the world to help prevent this crisis turning into a bigger catastrophe.
Here are highlights from Morena's op-ed, along with the stories of Venezuelans she met in the Colombian city of Cúcuta who are trying to build new lives far from the violence and economic chaos at home:
As inflation in Venezuela is expected to reach an inconceivable 10 million percent [in 2019], the U.N. has estimated that over 5 million refugees will be displaced.
"Standing with refugees is a test of our humanity, not just our policies." IRC Voice @MissMorenaB reflects on the crisis in Venezuela—which could produce more refugees than Syria—after her recent trip with IRC, on @Newsweek: https://t.co/ymbTPsX65u#StandWithRefugees
— IRC Intl Rescue Comm (@theIRC) January 27, 2019
Venezuela used to be one of the richest economies not only in the region, but in the entire world.
Living standards are so dramatically depressed those of the U.S. Great Depression pale in comparison.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by International Rescue Committee (@theirc) on
Venezuelans looking for a better life do not look the part of the desperate refugee fleeing a war-torn country. They look just like you and me.
A long-term solution is needed now that allows these refugees a chance to access health care, send their children to school, be documented and to contribute.
Morena Baccarin with a Venezuelan boy living as a refugee with his family in Cúcuta, Colombia.
Photo: Andres Brenner/IRC
A Venezuelan mom told me, 'Los suenos nunca se van a perder'—dreams are never lost.
Standing with refugees is a test of our humanity, not just our policies. The refugees I met opened their hearts and souls to me. A Venezuelan mom told me, “Los suenos nunca se van a perder”—dreams are never lost.
— Morena Baccarin (@missmorenab) January 24, 2019
With some small steps, a little at a time—we can all help. pic.twitter.com/e47sRGmdxN
Morena describes her work with the IRC
The International Rescue Committee is providing protection for women and children, access to health care, cash assistance and other critical aid to Venezuelans who are seeking safety in Colombia. We also support partners to provide lifesaving assistance to people in Venezuela whose lives have been shattered by violence and instability.
Learn more about Morena Baccarin and the IRC.
How to help
Donate now: Your support will help the IRC respond to the crisis in Venezuela and humanitarian emergencies in more than 40 countries around the world.
