The Polish television channel “TVP” has reported that a cultural event was held in Białystok, Poland to celebrate World Refugee Day.

According to the report, the Foundation for Education and Creativity in Białystok (Fundację Edukacji i Twórczości w Białymstoku) did a study about refugees and locals. A member from the foundation, Katarzyna Jackiewicz said that their study shows that local people do not know much about the refugees. “Poor attitudes towards refugees are often due to ignorance. Our studies have shown that Poles know very little about the refugees, including who the refugees are and which country they come from,” she said.

On June 18, the foundation organized an event to present other cultures for the local population and to celebrate the refugee day. The event was held at Planty Park in Białystok. Chechen refugees got a chance to explain their culture and cuisine. A Chechen children’s dance group took the stage and impressed locals with their wonderful show.

“Our culture is a bit strange for the Poles but this is a good chance to express ourselves,” said Akhmed Tashayev, who runs the dance class for Chechen children.

Most of the Chechen refugees say that the biggest problem they have faced in Poland is housing. The Polish people do not want to rent their flats to refugees and therefore, reject their requests.

*Text was translated by Waynakh Online and edited by Michael Capobianco