COM Outlook Spring 2020

NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY | 33 approximate the time and location of its arrival based on the wind. Sometimes, we would zip down the coast by car to meet a raft. Other- wise, we jogged over goat paths to a rocky cove where rafts landed. Mistaken Identity With my olive skin and dark features, I was mistaken for a refugee dozens of times. Scandina- vian volunteers smiled warmly and greeted me with salaam while handing me sandwiches. It was funny, but also showed how little removed I am—we are—from being in the soggy shoes of these refugees. What can we do as conscien- tious health professionals? We might choose to work at commu- nity health centers or safety-net hospitals where immigrants can receive primary care regardless of their legal status. We can also elect leaders who understand that war refugees are victims of circum- stance and should not be turned away by wealthy countries. Additionally, we can recognize the link between climate change and human displacement. It is widely acknowledged that climate- exacerbated drought and agri- cultural failure in Syria helped destabilize the economy and catalyze the civil war. Environmentally aggravated political conflict, and consequent displacement, is considered one of the major reasons climate change matters. On Lesvos, I saw firsthand that mass migra- tion is a health issue. It is one of many environmental health issues that should compel health professionals to advocate for climate change mitigation. o Zachary Burns is a third-year KPCOM student. Several Syrian children enjoy a snack after their harrowing journey.