The leafy trees around the apartment complex are only used for shade and social gatherings.

There are no terrified civilians cowering behind them, dodging gunfire. Teenage girls can walk down the street during the day and not fret about being raped. Mothers can send their sons to school without fear that they will be kidnapped and trained to be soldiers.

And so, on this peaceful street near downtown Lexington, a careful optimistic spirit seems to be spreading among African refugees from places far less safe.

They come from various parts ofAfrica, carrying well-worn pain and mistrust. The bitter war and ethnic cleansing in their countries gave them no choice but to plead for refuge in America. And with care, the Kentucky Refugee Ministries, which helps refugees adapt to the United States, has placed them in a neighborhood with people who have similar backgrounds, hoping they will find strength and solace in each other.



Audio slide show: Africa in the Bluegrass

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