Did you know that Gateway is the most diverse business district in Oregon? Or that Foster Area is home to the first Latinx public market in Portland? Welcoming Week begins this Friday, September 10. It has served as the annual celebration to showcase the growing movement of communities striving to be more welcoming places for all, including immigrants and refugees. Welcoming Week brings together people across lines of difference through culturally specific events, discussions, and classes. Venture out and enjoy Welcoming Week celebratory events in Portland’s neighborhood business districts. Here are just a few:

  • September 10: The Welcoming Week opening ceremony will take place at Gateway Discovery Park from 6-8pm and will include performances, speeches by community members and City Council Members, immigrant owned business vendors, and more.
  • September 11: From 5-8pm, enjoy a Samba, Semba, and Kizomba dance and music event at Favela Cafe. The event will provide a brief history lesson about the influence African music has had on Brazilian music. A dance class will follow the presentation.
  • September 12: Check out the Slavic Festival at Ventura Park from 9am-7pm. The festival will highlight the diversity of Slavic and central Asian cultures. Come enjoy food, performances, and more!
  • September 13: From 7-8:30pm, an online webinar will explore how to engage with immigrant and refugee communities through a trauma-informed approach. This event is primarily intended for those working directly with immigrant and refugee populations.
  • September 16: From 6-7:30pm, an online webinar will provide information about resources and programs for immigrants to start and develop businesses.
  • September 17: Show your solidarity for Portland’s immigrant and refugee communities at an awareness walk at Gateway Discovery Park at 5pm.
  • September 18: Despite Portland being famous for coffee culture, you may be surprised to know that all coffee is grown outside the United States and imported. Visit the Portland Mercado from 11am-5pm and learn about immigrant-owned coffee business owners and explore the history of coffee around the world.
  • September 19: From 12-2pm, an online webinar will explore Arabic identity, commonalities, and cultural distinctions through a panel discussion and performances. The focus will be on history, language, and culture.

What are you doing for Welcoming Week? Show us on Instagram and Facebook. For more information, visit the Office of Community and Civic Life’s website.