'Refugee' a misnomer, critics say
5th Sep 2005, 13:49 GMT
The word "refugee," often used to identify Cubans, Haitians or others seeking haven in the United States, this week became a prevalent label for thousands of people made homeless by Hurricane Katrina. But is it the correct term for Americans who are forced to relocate by a natural catastrophe? Webster's II New College Dictionary defines "refugee" as "one who flees, usually to another country, for refuge, especially from invasion, oppression or persecution." But in Webster's Third New International Dictionary, the first definition is "one who flees to a place of safety."
Latest news from Top Stories | ajc.com:
- King memorial is dream come true
- $1.8 MILLION BAILOUT
- Cobb likely to OK buses
- DeKalb police kill knife-wielding woman
- High Court won't review DeKalb role in sheriff killing
- Classes canceled at Westlake High after fire
- High Court won't review DeKalb role in sheriff killing
- Kerney's out for season
- Lanierland Music Park closing after 36 years
- Accused molester believed to have faked own death