Shelby County makes it official: It’s a refuge for refugees
Surrounded by members of the local refugee community on Friday, Jan. 3, Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris signs a ceremonial copy of a letter that was sent to the U.S. State Department confirming that the county would continue to accept refugees. (Patrick Lantrip/Daily Memphian)
Isaac James of Kenya speaks in Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris' office on Friday, Jan. 3, shortly before Harris signed a document affirming Shelby County's willingness to continue accepting refugees. (Patrick Lantrip/Daily Memphian)
Isaac James (from left), Faten Hawasha and Cute Lee stand by as Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris prepares to sign a document on Friday, Jan. 3, affirming the county's consent to continue resettling refugees. (Patrick Lantrip/Daily Memphian)
Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris signed a ceremonial copy of the letter that was sent to the U.S. State Department confirming that Shelby County would continue to accept refugees. (Patrick Lantrip/Daily Memphian)
“When we have the ability to act, we have a moral duty to help those in need, those in dire circumstances,” Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris said Friday, Jan. 3. “Refugees embark on a perilous journey to find safety, and historically the U.S. has been ready to do its part to provide safe haven.” (Patrick Lantrip/Daily Memphian)
In a letter to the U.S. Department of State, Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris notified federal officials that the county will continue to welcome refugees.