According to a report, since the start of the Iraq War in 2003 roughly 30,000 Iraqi refugees have arrived in metro-Detroit. Some of the obstacles the refugees are dealing with include language barriers, driving, poor mental health, and not having the high education levels required to get employed among other serious issues. In 2012 Michigan estimated 4,600 arrivals. March marked the tenth anniversary of the Iraq war.  

Speaking to WDET Madhia Tariq, a project coordinator for the Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services said 75 percent of the refugees seeking help from ACCESS are Iraqis. She says many local programs are only available to help Iraqis for  a short term, but ACCESS works with refugees for longer terms or as long as necessary.   

ACCESS and the Arab and Chaldean Council (ACC) both have programs to assist Iraqis who’re victims of torture. A significant portion of Iraqi refugees have migrated to Macomb County, and are shaping its makeup. Tariq said she doesn’t see the large influx of Iraqi refugees decreasing soon, and expects it to continue for a few years She noted that in the future, the group could also see a significant number of Syrian refugees emigrating to southeast Michigan, who will also require assistance. If you know a refugee who’s a victim of torture call ACCESS at 313.842.7010 or the ACC, 248.559.1990 to ask about their programs.