About From Refugee to Diplomat

An independent tribute to an American story that is rarely told in one place.

Why this site exists

Refugee stories are usually told at the moment of arrival. This site tells what came next. Among the refugees the United States took in are people who went on to sign treaties, run embassies, protect American diplomats, and issue visas to the next generation of newcomers.

How profiles are chosen

A person is included only if a published source, such as an official biography, the person's own published account, a Department of State publication, or reputable reporting, describes them as a refugee or asylee, or as having fled persecution, and confirms their service. Each profile lists its sources. No one is described here as a refugee on the basis of a guess.

Corrections

Details such as titles and dates change. If a fact on this site is out of date, the listed sources are the place to check first.

Independence

This site is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of State or any government agency.