Refugee & Migrant Awareness

Greetings, family, friends, and supporters!

My name is Allana Mia Holiday. I am a first-year international studies major with a double minor in food studies & refugee and forced migration studies, attending the #1 Spelman College. I am honored to be your enchanting contestant #3 in the Miss Kappa Alpha Scholarship Pageant hosted by the exceptional Lambda Delta Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated at the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Immigrant-origin students account for approximately 5.8 million students in higher education. They are the fastest-growing group of students in U.S. higher education, driving 90% of all domestic enrollment growth at colleges and universities between 2000 and 2022. Immigrant-origin students are beautifully diverse, reflecting the diversity of migrants in the U.S. They contribute to the success of the economy and the social fabric of America.

It is essential we give these students a safe space to not only share their stories but to shed light on the struggles their communities face. Refugees and migrants are individuals with fundamental human rights. Refugees and migrants are not a monolithic group. Each individual has their own unique journey and experience to share. However, they are commonly overlooked and stereotyped into one category. They are often labeled as “outsiders” or "foreigners,” leading to feelings of separation and exclusion. They also face being stereotyped as a burden on society, causing them to face discrimination and xenophobia.

As a contestant, I stand on the platform of creating a safe space for immigrant-origin students and social justice advocacy. If I were to win the title of Miss Kappa Alpha Psi, I would work to bring greater awareness to the lives and struggles of refugees and migrants. This is a critically overlooked topic, and it’s time to end the stigma surrounding it. Together, I believe we can make a significant difference. My campaign is designed to educate fellow students and create an inclusive space for conversation. I will be hosting a variety of exciting and informative events.

Every contribution, no matter how small, plays a vital role in helping me achieve my goal. Join me on this journey of compassion and change, and let’s make an impact together. Thank you for your support! You’re lovely contestant #3, Allana Holiday!