Advocates gather in Colorado Springs to create awareness on Syria refugees

Turmoil continues in Syria as million of refugees continue to flee the country. 11 million people are still displaced and a group in Colorado Springs is trying to help.

Dozens gathered in downtown Colorado Springs Saturday to spread a message.

“I’m out here today because I see the pictures on television. I realize the tragedies that these families are going through,” said Gary Butchan.

Millions of refugees are trying to escape the violence following the Syrian civil war in 2011. Several have fled to surrounding countries, but others have been caught, kidnapped or even killed by soldiers guarding the borders.

“I wish I could open the door and find a place for them to live but we don’t have that freedom to do all of that. But if we can stand and say we’re with them and we can try to find ways and encourage our politicians,” said Butchan.

The Obama administration recently announced the US will take up to 10,000 refugees, but this group says Colorado can do more.

“I believe the United States can admit upward of 65,000 more refugees,” said Dennis Apuan.

It’s a message they’re trying to spread in Colorado Springs.

“We are here to make sure the people in Colorado and all across the country are aware we are ready to embrace refugees and that we’re ready to open our hearts and community for them,” said Apuan.

This group was part of a nationwide project spreading awareness on the situation in Syria.