Refugee High: Coming of Age in America

In 2017, the Roger C. Sullivan High School in Chicago had a refugee population of nearly three hundred, or nearly half the school. Elly Fishman's book "Refugee High" chronicles the 2017–18 school year, when anti-immigrant rhetoric was at its height in the White House. It raises important questions about public school priorities and values and provides an eye-opening and captivating window into the present-day American immigration and education systems.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 288 pages
\n Publication date: 26 August 2021
\n Publisher: The New Press
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A captivating portrayal of a Chicago high school, Roger C. Sullivan High School, emerges through the lens of Elly Fishman's profound storytelling. Within its walls, a remarkable tapestry of stories unfolds, showcasing young individuals on a quest for a sense of belonging. Through meticulous reporting, Fishman achieves a remarkable feat of empathy, drawing readers into the lives of these students and their school. Their tales and the institution they represent encapsulate the very best of our nation, resonating with our collective humanity. The struggles, triumphs, and journeys experienced by these young individuals will leave an indelible mark on your heart.

Established over a century ago, Roger C. Sullivan High School has been a sanctuary for immigrant and refugee students. In 2017, during the most severe global refugee crisis in history, the school's immigrant population surged to nearly three hundred individuals, accounting for nearly half of the student body. Among them were numerous refugees who had recently arrived in the country, hailing from thirty-five diverse nations and speaking over thirty-eight distinct languages.

The lives of these refugee teens in Chicago are far from uncomplicated. They have witnessed the depths of human suffering and carry the weight of the traumatic violence they left behind. In America, they confront poverty, racism, and xenophobia, yet they remain resilient and youthful. They engage in the typical activities of adolescence, such as flirting, dreaming, and pursuing their livelihoods as they adapt to their new life in the United States.

Refugee High offers a captivating chronicle of the 2017–2018 school year at Sullivan High, a period characterized by heightened anti-immigrant rhetoric in the White House. As we delve into the lives of teachers and administrators navigating the everyday challenges faced by urban schools, we simultaneously witness the intricate circumstances and distinct educational needs of refugee and immigrant children.

Alejandro, for instance, faces the imminent threat of deportation just days before his scheduled graduation. Shahina narrowly avoids an arranged marriage, and Belenge grapples with the loss of her parents in a tragic accident. These narratives shed light on the complex challenges these students face, highlighting the importance of support and understanding in their journey toward integration and success.

Through the pages of Refugee High, we gain a deeper appreciation for the resilience and determination of these young individuals. Their stories remind us of the power of education to transform lives and foster a more inclusive and compassionate society. Roger C. Sullivan High School serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of humanity and the transformative power of compassion.

\n Weight: 428g\n
Dimension: 148 x 222 x 29 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781620975084\n \n