The holiday season is often seen as a time for joy, family, and tradition. However, for migrant and displaced families, it can evoke a host of emotional challenges. As they adapt to new environments and face the harsh realities of resettlement, these individuals grapple not only with the physical demands of survival but also with the psychological toll of displacement.
The Struggles of Displaced Children
Mher, a 5-year-old boy who once eagerly awaited Santa’s gifts and the indulgence of vanilla cake during the festive season in Artsakh, now finds himself in a very different situation. Following his family’s forced migration to Armenia, the joy of Christmas has been replaced by the pressing need to rebuild their lives in a foreign land.
For many migrants, the holiday season amplifies feelings of loss, isolation, and homesickness. Memories of past celebrations—often more joyful and familiar—can heighten the emotional strain. The Journal of Refugee Studies has found that family separation, a common reality for many displaced people, is one of the leading factors in the mental health challenges they face. When holidays focus on family unity, these feelings of separation are magnified, creating a deep sense of loneliness.
Cultural Disconnect and Stress
Adapting to new customs during holidays can be disorienting and even alienating for displaced people, especially when traditions differ significantly from those in their homeland. For instance, many Armenians and people from Artsakh celebrate Armenian Orthodox Christmas on January 6, but in their new environment, they are surrounded by foreign traditions—such as the December 25 festivities and a scarcity of familiar decorations and foods. This cultural dissonance only adds to the stress of resettlement, as displaced families struggle to balance their own customs with those of their host countries.
Moreover, financial difficulties can exacerbate the pressure to participate in typical holiday activities. The costs associated with large meals, gift-giving, and travel can be daunting for families who are already dealing with the economic instability that often accompanies displacement.
The Importance of Tradition and Community
Despite these challenges, maintaining cultural traditions is crucial for displaced individuals. These rituals provide much-needed stability in an otherwise chaotic environment. They help preserve a sense of identity, grounding individuals in their heritage while navigating the stresses of their new life.
Traditions also foster community connections. The act of sharing meals, wearing traditional clothing, or engaging in religious ceremonies can help migrants maintain ties to their culture while finding new ways to bond with those around them. For many displaced families, these shared rituals offer comfort and continuity, creating a small sense of normalcy amid uncertainty.
For example, many Armenian families, even in new surroundings, continue to decorate holiday trees, bake traditional pastries, and celebrate Christmas with familiar customs. These activities not only bring comfort but also serve as a means of building community with others in similar situations.
Creating New Bonds in Host Communities
While tradition plays a central role in maintaining cultural ties, it is also vital for displaced individuals to forge new connections with their host communities. The loss of social networks and family support systems can deepen the isolation felt by refugees. Therefore, efforts to promote integration and interaction—through social events, school activities, and community gatherings—are essential. These initiatives help bridge the gap between displaced families and their new neighbors, fostering understanding and solidarity.
Religious Significance and Emotional Resilience
Holidays hold deep spiritual meaning for many displaced individuals, especially since a significant portion of refugees (about 87%) identify as religious. The rituals associated with religious holidays provide a sense of purpose and a connection to something greater than the immediate challenges of daily life. This spiritual anchor can offer emotional resilience, allowing individuals to endure hardship with hope and faith.
As one mother, displaced by conflict, expressed, “We’ve faced incredibly difficult days. The children yearned for sweets, but there was nothing to offer. It was heart-wrenching not being able to fulfill their wishes. But we are recovering. We will get back on our feet because my children are my strength.”
For children like Mher, the holiday season is not just about material gifts; it is also about maintaining the spark of excitement and wonder that the holidays traditionally bring. For him, the memory of vanilla cake and the laughter of children playing in the garden are the things he holds onto, even as he faces the hardships of resettlement.
Supporting Displaced Families During the Holidays
Organizations working with displaced families understand the importance of sustaining holiday joy, especially for children. By providing gifts, food, and even simple decorations, they help preserve the sense of wonder and joy that is so crucial during this time. In Armenia, for example, over 260 displaced children in the Syunik province will receive gifts and support, helping to maintain the magic of the season.
While the holiday season may be fraught with challenges for displaced families, it also presents an opportunity to nurture resilience, foster community, and uphold cultural traditions. By acknowledging the unique struggles of migrant populations and providing them with the resources and support they need, we can help create a more inclusive environment for all, even during the most difficult times.
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