As we approach September 13, the second anniversary of “The Oxford Fire,”  I am reflecting on the survivors and that traumatic event in their lives.  Having spent significant time with them immediately following the tragedy which displaced 26 families, I am in awe of where they are today.

These immigrant families have learned to navigate the world that had been turned upside down as they ran from their apartments in pajamas, holding children and pets in their arms.  There had been no time to even grab shoes, to say nothing of important documents.  They had been told to leave immediately by police officers who saved all the lives in those buildings.  We cannot thank those officers enough!

Today, with the help of this Oxford community, these families are not only surviving, they are thriving.  They are relocated into other homes, most able to remain in the Oxford Area School District so that children would not be faced with more transitions.  They continue to smile, happily greet you on the streets and in the parks, and reach out to help others.  Yes, you read that correctly!  These wonderful immigrant families not only received help from us, but are always looking for ways to help us – to return the favor.  

What could have ended in devastation – like the empty lots where the buildings were – these immigrant families rose from the ashes, just like the new downtown Oxford will!  I am so very proud to call them my friends – actually more like my extended family!

Peggy Ann Russell

Oxford resident

September 8, 2025