“They hear the story from us, not others tell the stories of us, and make that connection to build a safer and more welcoming community in Jacksonville,” Alawee said. Their lives are on display days after President Joe Biden signed an executive order that aims to expand refugee resettlement and improve elements of the program. “I am an immigrant and I do think immigrants, when they come to The United States, they see a raw and fresh start. Therefore, they work hard, they contribute, contribute to this country.”State Department data shows the United States admitted 1,500 refugees in the current fiscal year. Jacksonville residents are invited to reconnect and learn about their refugee and immigrant neighbors through the Journey to Jacksonville exhibit.