WHS sophomores took part in an assembly in the Little Theater throughout the day Friday that addressed issues from the novel “To Kill A Mockingbird” and issue of racism.

Because of recent racial tensions in Sioux Falls and to enhance understanding of issues surrounding the novel, teachers asked Angela Konda of Lutheran Social Services (LSS) and refuges Clara Hart and Noel Barnaba to come and speak about what they have each experienced in their own lives.

Hart came to the U.S. in 1988 out of Mozambique while Barnaba came from Sudan in 1999. They talked of the trials, triumphs, changes and opportunities moving to America presented.

“The first couch that we ever owned was found in a dumpster, along with our first clothes,” Hart told the students on Friday.

Barnaba also talked about changes in his life.

“My role in the community in Sudan was proactive and fighting for what was right against the government,” Barnaba said. “Now, I fight for a living in America.”

Konda has worked at LSS for four years helping refugees like Barnaba and Hart become accustomed to life in America.

“I am given the opportunity to work with some of the most amazing people in the world,” she said.

The sophomores are also discussing the issue of racism and have begun reading “To Kill A Mockingbird” to help understand this issue and many others, as the topics that the author Harper Lee covers range from rape to hypocrisy. Studying such a book could not have come at a better time, considering recent events in Sioux Falls, which provides an outlet for the students to have real life experiences that they can compare to fictional characters and events.

English teacher Becky Colleran said she hopes students learn much from the experience.

“All sophomores can benefit and learn from these refugees,” Colleran said. “We need to look at things through one another’s eyes. Hopefully, through learning about experiences and struggles like the ones the refugees faced, acceptance and knowledge will grow.”