To the Board of Directors,

We, the undersigned, are deeply shocked and disheartened by the decision to separate Arrey Obenson from the International Institute of St. Louis, an organization he has so passionately and effectively led.

Under Arrey’s leadership, the International Institute has not only transformed lives but has also achieved groundbreaking milestones, including:

- Tripling the staff and significantly expanding operational capacity.
- Establishing the Missouri Office for Refugee Administration (MO-ORA) with a new downtown office and a larger team.
- Expanding the Springfield office with additional staff and new facilities.
- Introducing the Afghan Support Program and the Latino Outreach Initiative, creating tailored support systems for diverse communities.
- Welcoming record numbers of refugees, fueling regional economic growth and enriching the cultural fabric of St. Louis.
- For the first time, securing 24 apartments owned by the International Institute, a $2.4 million achievement that strengthens housing security for refugees.
- Building unparalleled partnerships and attracting millions of dollars in unrestricted funding, unprecedented in the organization’s history.
- Putting St. Louis on the global stage through his visionary leadership, collaborative mindset, and unwavering dedication.

Arrey’s ability to turn challenges into opportunities has elevated the International Institute to heights never seen before. His visionary leadership has not only benefited the organization but also inspired hope, strengthened communities, and positioned St. Louis as a leader in global resettlement efforts.

We demand transparency from the Board of Directors regarding the reasons for this decision. The community that Arrey has served so faithfully and effectively deserves clear and honest communication about why such a critical decision was made.

We urge the Board to reconsider this decision and reinstate Arrey Obenson as the leader of the International Institute of St. Louis. His unparalleled contributions and visionary leadership are indispensable to the success and future of this organization and our community.

Sign this petition to show your support for Arrey Obenson and demand accountability from the Board of Directors.

Together, we can ensure that the International Institute remains a place of opportunity, growth, and hope under the leadership of a proven and inspiring changemaker.