Welcoming America affiliates in Michigan and New Hampshire recently brought their newly-launched initiatives into the public spotlight.

Welcoming Michigan formally kicked off their initiative with a launch event on May 7^th in Detroit that included a diverse coalition of supporters and recognition by state lawmakers.   The event showcased the work of the growing initiative, which is led by the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center.

The initiative will focus initially on communities in Southeast Michigan and Detroit.  The event was covered by the Detroit News, which highlighted the role of Welcoming Michigan in  showcasing the economic contributions of immigrants to the Michigan economy.  The bi-partisan initiative has received support from various lawmakers, including the Governor Rick Snyder.   Says Snyder, “For the overwhelming majority of immigrants, the opportunity to begin again—and flourish —is what made Michigan great.  We need to continue to harness this thirst for success and the work ethic that makes success possible, to help Michigan grow once again.”

Welcoming New Hampshire, whose campaign launched in 2011, was recently recognized by Governor John Lynch.  In a proclamation issued last month, Governor Lynch commended the organization for “continuing to make our state proud of our welcoming tradition.” Welcoming New Hampshire is organized by the New Hampshire Alliance for Immigrants and Refugees (NHAIR).

You’re Welcome Rocks at South by Southwest

Above left: the Kenyan band Sauti Sol gets everyone dancing in the aisles.  Watch Sauti Sol video

Right: Oliver Rajamani performs. Watch Oliver Rajamani video

Welcoming America’s You’re Welcome! event recently made a splash at one of the nation’s largest music festivals, South by Southwest in Austin, Texas.   The day of comedy, music, and dialogue was designed to engage culture influencers and showcase performers that celebrate the fusion of cultures in America. 

The event was a success, and included a cultural influencers workshop where artists, musicians and comedians joined with activists for an exciting conversation about how to participate in the Welcoming Movement.

A big thanks to the performers, including Negin Farsad, Sauti Sol, Oliver Rajamani, Invincible, DJ Martin Perna, Riders Against the Storm, Maggie Maye, and many more.

Many thanks to our volunteers, to Opportunity Agenda for their opinion polling help, to the George Washington Carver Cultural Center, and to The Ford Foundation, Open Society Foundations, and Unbound Philanthropy for their generous support.  See more pictures from the day, and stay tuned for additional clips and coverage.

More events are planned for the summer, as Welcoming America affiliates will join with local artists and other leaders in Detroit and Omaha to make them more welcoming places.

Want to learn more and get involved? Contact us today.