The Wonderful Women Behind Caritas In Via

 The wonderful women behind Caritas In Via

My service-learning experience in Munich, Germany, was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that benefitted me in more ways than can be acknowledged. One of the things that stood out the most during our time working with refugees was the women behind the organization. My team had the privilege of working with a group of women who ran everything from office management to refugee assistance. Three women stood out to me the most. We met with Fatma, who was hired at the organization as a Respect Coach, which gives her the authority to go to schools to teach students of all ages about refugees and clarify between what is real and what is misinformation. In the United States, it seems as though the similar effort of Critical Race Theory has become a point of controversy. In Germany, they seek these types of education programs as they live in the infamous shadow of Adolf Hitler. The United States is in a unique position, as we have historically been on the side of democracy. Additionally, Americans see themselves as the goalpost of human rights and democracy. Critical Race Theory challenges that notion, claiming that being historically accurate is far more important than maintaining a belief that erases a traumatic history. Fatma’s job comes with a lot of responsibility, but one that will overall benefit refugees and the broader community.

Another wonderful woman we met with was Jeanett. In addition to being bright and multi-lingual, she also oversaw all matters concerning women seeking refuge from domestic violence situations. Her work consists of housing these women, helping them find jobs and assistance, and overall helps them acclimate to their new environment. Many women seek Jeanett because the living conditions in which she houses these women are much better than the typical refugee housing. Because of this, Jeanett is able to maintain a sense of order between women with not much in common because they know they have a sense of security in Jeanett’s housing.

Lastly, Monica Duran is the last woman I want to mention. She was the wonderful social worker in which we shadowed for two weeks, and her work does not go unnoticed by anyone. It was clear within the first couple of days with her that she was the person everyone communicated with—whether that be on issues of housing, issues of government paperwork, or even issues of childcare. This is with colleagues and refugees alike. We were lucky to have that trust extended to us, as we heard stories that were difficult to digest. We only got a small glimpse of what she does as a career, but I am confident I got a full grasp of her work ethic and character.

It was an honor working with such intelligent and wonderful women.

Jeanett third from left

Monica in the middle between Annika and Jenna

Fatma third from right

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