Episode 5: Immigrant ECBOs in Maine - Tête-à-tête with the Chairman of the Congolese Community Association of Maine
Manage episode 426693016 series 3567827
This episode features Mardochée Mbongi, chairman of the Congolese Community Association of Maine. Mardochée shares his inspiring story of fleeing persecution in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, finding temporary safety in Liberia, and ultimately filing for asylum in the United States.
We'll hear about the challenges Mardochée faced upon arriving in the US and in Maine, including homelessness. But his story is one of resilience. He quickly became involved in community programs and advocacy efforts.
Mardochee dives into the importance of accurate data collection for immigrant communities. He explains the different categories of immigrants in Maine, including asylum seekers, refugees, and those with legal status through other means.
You'll also learn about the significant size and growing numbers of the Congolese community in Maine. This is especially important as Maine grapples with an aging population and slow birth rates.
The episode concludes with Mardochée discussing his role as chairman of the Congolese Community Association of Maine and the essential work the organization does to empower and support its members.
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