My learning in the class was gradual, and it was cumulative.
The most important thing that this class has offered me is the opportunity to reframe my own understanding of refugee affairs. During my time engaged with this course, I often found myself turning in on myself to witness how the teachings in the class were altering the way in which I approached and understood this topic.
Throughout my life, I’ve witnessed the terms “victim” and “refugee” being used in correspondence with each other. The class has challenged this association and presented many arguments against this way of thinking of and relating to refugees, migrants and asylum seekers. The term “I don’t want your pity” often came to mind when studying refugee narratives. The way in which cultural refugee studies asks us to view refugees as persons instead of victims is of vital importance. Refugees are often only looked at in their “refugee-ness.” In my blog post from September 15th, I explored the different ‘layers’ of the term refugee. Over time, I have been able to recognize my understanding of refugees as being grounded in the cultural figure and the common imaginary about what a ‘refugee’ is. Studying refugee narratives, we as a class have turned rather to the human person. We have come to understand, and then remove, the veil of qualities and expectations imposed on refugees. Narratives have instead presented the human person in all their power, capability and fullness. This alteration in view can be gradual but taking the time to allow the dominant narrative regarding refugees to be challenged is a catalyst for empathy and change.
