One Day to Celebrate

2019 n13
​Orange shirts were everywhere, and we weren’t at a UT football game! The shirts welcomed everyone who entered in their own language. Drums echoed beyond the doors, beckoning us all into the space. Smiles played across every face—volunteers and visitors.

Where was I? At this year’s World Refugee Day celebration: one day marked to celebrate people from many nations who have immigrated to the United States, escaping violence and oppression while bringing beauty and creativity to metro Knoxville. 

---

The children’s area consumed half of the Jacob’s Building at Chilhowee Park. There were two inflatable play places, snacks, crafts and activities, even an arm-wrestling station. Along one side, many organizations serving refugees and other internationals set up displays and engaged those who attended. (Here at KIN, we connected with six new translators/interpreters and several other new volunteers.) Beside the KIN table, one volunteer drew henna on visitors’ hands non-stop from 5:30pm to 8:00pm! 

On the other side of the building, long tables of food offered tastes from many countries. Regardless of our previous experiences, there was something new for each person to try. In the middle, visitors could sit down to eat in front of a stage supporting performances, presentations, and an African fashion show.

The food was good, the entertainment enjoyable, and the information relevant, but one aspect of the evening surpassed all others: the greetings. Old friends hugged after months apart. New friends shook hands. Everyone smiled. Everyone was welcome. What began as a celebration day turned into a family reunion.

READY TO BE INVOLVED?
Events like this happen once or twice a year, and it takes many, many volunteers to make it work! If you would like to help plan and present an event, get more information about occasional volunteer opportunities or email us today.