Korean American Students Host Thanksgiving Event for Rohingya Refugee Families

Chicago Korea Times

29 November 2024

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On November 23rd, a nonprofit organization called "In the Beginning," led by second-generation Korean American students in the Chicago area, hosted a special event to support Rohingya refugee families. The event featured various programs designed to help Rohingya refugees adapt to American society and provide them with practical assistance.

The Rohingya people are an ethnic group that has long suffered political, social, and religious persecution in Myanmar. Following violent military crackdowns in 2017, a large-scale refugee crisis emerged, and they currently represent one of the world's largest refugee communities, facing extremely difficult circumstances.

Bringing Thanksgiving Traditions to Refugee Families

This event was organized to introduce Rohingya refugee families to the meaning of Thanksgiving, a traditional American holiday, and to provide opportunities for family bonding. Various activities were planned to allow refugee families to share warm meals together and express gratitude.

The dinner event featured traditional Thanksgiving foods alongside Korean cuisine, creating an opportunity for cultural exchange. Additionally, a concert was held for refugee families and children who were unfamiliar with classical music and performances, offering them a new cultural experience. One attendee shared, "Through this event, we were able to feel that we are not alone. We are so grateful and happy."

Mission of Cultural Understanding and Support

Hayden Cho, the organization's leader, stated, "Our goal through this event is to extend a warm hand to refugee families and help them adapt well to American society." He continued, "We hope that through this activity, students can develop a deeper respect for cultural diversity and a stronger sense of social responsibility."

The organization's members noted that "this event took months to prepare, and we worked hard to help refugee families live with hope and confidence in their new environment." They shared that the event had a positive impact on the local community and served as a reminder of the importance of solidarity and love that transcends culture and background.

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Photo provided by In the Beginning

Join Us in Making a Difference

In the Beginning is always looking for volunteers, partners, and supporters who share our vision of helping refugee families thrive in their new home. Whether you can offer time, resources, or expertise, there's a place for you in this important work.

Together, we can continue creating moments of connection, hope, and belonging for those who need it most.

To contact us, look at the end of this page to find our contact information.

Because everyone deserves to feel welcomed, valued, and hopeful about their future.

Sharing the Spirit of Thanksgiving: A Special Evening with Rohingya Refugee Families

Chicago Kyocharo

November 23, 2024 | Chicago, IL

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On November 23rd, 2024, students from In the Beginning hosted an extraordinary Thanksgiving celebration that brought together Korean-American youth and Rohingya refugee families in the Chicago area. What unfolded was more than just a meal—it was a powerful testament to the bonds that can form when communities come together with open hearts.

Understanding the Rohingya Journey

The Rohingya people have endured decades of persecution in Myanmar, facing political, social, and religious discrimination. Following violent military crackdowns in 2017, hundreds of thousands were forced to flee their homes, seeking refuge in neighboring Bangladesh and beyond. Today, the Rohingya represent one of the world's largest refugee populations, carrying with them stories of resilience and hope for a better future.

When these families arrive in America, they face the daunting challenge of rebuilding their lives in an entirely unfamiliar environment—new language, new customs, new systems to navigate. This is where In the Beginning steps in.

Our Mission: In the Beginning

In the Beginning is a student-led organization founded by Korean-American high school and middle school students across Chicago and its suburbs. Grounded in faith and driven by compassion, our mission is to help Rohingya refugee families successfully integrate into American society.

Our Core Programs Include:

Educational Support: One-on-one tutoring for refugee children to help them succeed in school

Music Education: Introducing children to the joy of music and creative expression

Career Guidance: Helping parents explore employment opportunities and navigate the job market

School Navigation: Providing parents with essential information about their children's education

English Language Classes: Customized ESL instruction for mothers who haven't had access to formal education

A Thanksgiving to Remember

Our November 23rd event was designed to introduce Rohingya families to the American tradition of Thanksgiving—a celebration centered on gratitude, community, and sharing abundance with others. The evening was carefully crafted to be both educational and joyful, creating an atmosphere where cultural exchange could flourish naturally.

The dinner featured traditional Thanksgiving dishes alongside popular Korean foods, creating a unique fusion that represented the coming together of our communities. But food was just the beginning.

We organized a taekwondo demonstration that captivated both children and adults, showcasing Korean martial arts traditions. Interactive games and cultural activities allowed everyone to participate regardless of language barriers. For many refugee families, the highlight was a special musical performance—their first exposure to classical music and live concert culture.

"Through this event, I felt that we're not alone. I was so happy." — Rohingya Family Member

These words capture the essence of what we set out to achieve. In a world where refugees often feel isolated and disconnected, creating moments of belonging and joy becomes an act of profound significance.

The Power of Youth Leadership

Our Leadership Team:

• Hayden Cho - Walter Payton College Prep

• Hazel Kim - Stevenson High School

• Annalise Song - Buffalo Grove High School

• Jayne Kang - John Hersey High School

• Dianne Park - Stevenson High School

• Iris Kang - Vernon Hills High School

• Ethan Jung - Northside College Prep

What makes In the Beginning special is that it's entirely student-driven. Our leadership team and members have spent months planning, coordinating, and executing programs that make a real difference in refugee families' lives. We've learned that effective service requires more than good intentions—it demands organization, cultural sensitivity, sustained commitment, and genuine relationships.

Looking Forward

The success of our Thanksgiving celebration has energized our entire team. We've seen firsthand how cultural exchange enriches everyone involved—the refugee families we serve and the student volunteers who dedicate their time and hearts to this cause.

As we move forward, In the Beginning remains committed to expanding our programs and deepening our impact. We're exploring new partnerships, developing additional educational resources, and finding innovative ways to support refugee families in their journey toward self-sufficiency and belonging.

This Thanksgiving event reminded us of a fundamental truth: when we extend compassion across cultural boundaries, when we choose solidarity over indifference, when we invest in relationships rather than transactions—that's when real transformation happens. Not just for those we serve, but for ourselves as well.

Join Us in Making a Difference

In the Beginning is always looking for volunteers, partners, and supporters who share our vision of helping refugee families thrive in their new home. Whether you can offer time, resources, or expertise, there's a place for you in this important work.

Together, we can continue creating moments of connection, hope, and belonging for those who need it most.

To contact us, look at the end of this page to find our contact information.

Because everyone deserves to feel welcomed, valued, and hopeful about their future.