On Wednesday, September 30, a diverse group of over 50 people who work with immigrants at schools, hou
ses of worship, non-profits, small businesses, and the offices of elected officials gathered at St. Frances Cabrini Shrine for the launch of a new initiative called Uptown Open Arms. The event was coordinated by a team of local leaders, including the Shrine.
Uptown Open Arms is built on the knowledge that everyone helping in the immigration sphere works hard, heads down… and once a month it’s crucial to look up and see who is beside us. The focus is on the people in the room and on creating energy, connection and possibility. The program included several focused activities so that each person met 5-10 others they didn’t know. The result was a sense of discovery and optimism.
Uptown Open Arms will continue to meet monthly at the Shrine throughout the year.