Halifax refugee walk draws attention to plight of refugees

A walk raising awareness of the the plight of refugees was held in Halifax on Saturday and was much more well-attended than last year's event — and with good reason.

Attendance was up in part due to the arrival of so many Syrian refugees to Nova Scotia during the last six months.

"It has been a tough year, but it's been a fantastic year. It's continuing the momentum for us. It's a moment where can actually step back and say, 'Yes, this is continuing,'" said Denise Scott, an official with the Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS).

During the religious event, Muslims are not allowed to eat or drink while the sun is up.

Smooth sailing for one Syrian family

So far, it's been smooth sailing for her.

"I have no difficulties, no challenges, everything is good," she said through an interpreter.

Her husband, Eysel Ali, is learning English and has found a job cooking at an iconic local pub.

"We got training at the college through ISANS ... They found us places to work and I'm working at The Old Triangle," he said through an interpreter.

ISANS says many of the biggest barriers to these new Nova Scotians are still present, things like finding jobs, learning English and finding affordable housing.

The walk was held in advance of World Refugee Day, which is happening Monday.