Severna Park Junior Educates Peers About Refugees

About two years ago, before Severna Park High School junior Tacy Surrett moved to Maryland, she started a Girl Scout project that told the stories of Syrian refugees, an initiative she used to achieve her Gold Award. What originally started as eight monologues and 12 photos has blossomed into a multi-state adventure, with enough stories to create a website, and an ultimate goal of educating others about the hardships and stories of refugees.

Initially, Surrett’s goal was to have her monologues and photos included in “Words4Girls,” a live performance in which talented young women display their work and explain their thoughts about growing up in the 21st century.

“I worked with the director, Miriam Engstrom, to have two of my monologues included in the show and to have my exhibit of writing and photos displayed outside the theater area for the audience to see,” said Surrett.

Surrett was always thinking about ways she could make a difference, how she could bring issues to life and make others aware of them. Her key issues included feminism, helping others and, most importantly, refugees.

“I realized I could combine these to create a series of monologues, poems and photographs that will educate and inspire others about the true stories of refugees,” Surrett said. “I felt that the world mainly looked at the artificial side of refugees, such as their economic effect or border disputes. However, I think it is vital to understand where people come from, what their stories are, and to look at the human side of the refugee crisis.”

Over these last two years, Surrett has worked with men and women ranging from age 5 to 80. “I have cried with them, laughed with them, had tea with them, and I honestly could not be more touched by the bravery and wonder exhibited by these incredible people.”

Her first monologue told the story of an Iranian family with two girls who had moved in order to gain freedom of religion, a right guaranteed in America by the First Amendment.

Surrett constantly stresses the importance of listening and learning about people, instead of just judging based on looks. “I have met some of the most educated, intelligent and capable people who honestly would just like to work and support themselves and ultimately return home to their countries,” she said. “That is why it is so important to talk to people and learn what they have to say before we jump to conclusions.”

Surrett has presented her work in schools, churches and retirement homes. The structure of her presentation usually includes an explanation of the project, followed by a political presentation by her father, Roy, followed by a performance of one of her monologues. The presentation ends with a Q&A session. In instances where she does not have time to explain and present her exhibit, she leaves it standing for people to view and enjoy. So far, the project has taken her to Turkey, Maryland, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Virginia and Michigan.

Along the way, Surrett has learned more about herself as well. “[I have] learned how important it is to truly listen to people and be there for them when needed,” she said. “I learned the importance of love and acceptance, of having an open mind, and of how much words and stories do matter.” Her project continues to grow, as more monologues and photos are added almost every day.