For the first time ever, a small team of international refugee athletes are competing at the Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil this year — representing the some 65 million people displaced by war, conflict and persecution.

The 10 athletes come from Syria, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Ethiopia. Such courage and resilience comes at a time when the world is witnessing its worst refugee crisis since the Second World War. For more than 80 years, the International Rescue Committee has been helping refugees find safety and rebuild their lives.

“These brave athletes have had their education, careers and lives interrupted by war and conflict and yet have found the strength and perseverance to inspire us all," said IRC President and CEO David Miliband. 

We are proud to stand with #TeamRefugees and refugees worldwide. Here's how you can get involved:

ALT TEXT

 

1. Stand with #TeamRefugees.

Join us as we cheer on the refugee team at the Olympics this year. 

2. Join the conversation.

Follow @theIRC on Twitter and the International Rescue Committee on Facebook and help us raise awareness about the global refugee crisis.

3. Support our work.

Learn about the other ways you can help refugees in your local community.