Not In Our Town partnered with Welcoming America [1] around the release of our film, Light in the Darkness [2], a PBS documentary that explores how a New York village came together following anti-immigrant violence.
Welcoming America works with affiliates nationwide to engage the towns that welcome immigrants. In addition to online activities that feature Not In Our Town [3], Welcoming America hosts National Welcoming Week, starting on Sept. 13!
During the week of Sept. 13-21, 2014, Welcoming America and its partners across the country will host National Welcoming Week [4], a nationwide event that will highlight the contributions of immigrants to American communities.
Throughout the country, National Welcoming Week events will bring together immigrants and U.S.-born community members in a spirit of unity through service projects and cultural events.
Join a Welcoming Week Event in Your Community
Currently, events are being planned in communities across the country - to find the one closest to you, visit welcomingweek.org [4].
Not In Our Town Ideas for Welcoming Week
National Welcoming Week is a great opportunity to support your local immigrant community. Here are some ideas to get Not In Our Town groups started.
1. Screen Waking In Oak Creek and spark a discussion in your community.
Waking In Oak Creek [5] (33:00) profiles a suburban town rocked by hate after six worshipers at a Sikh Temple are killed by a white supremacist. In the year following the attack, the film highlights a community and law enforcement working together to overcome tragedy, stand up to hate, and create a safe town for all.
Request a free DVD [6] and screen it in your town.
The film was produced in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Justice COPS Office as part of the Not In Our Town: Working Together for Safe, Inclusive Communities Initiative.
2. Dissolve Stereotypes (Activity)
This popular activity was inspired by a Not In Our School campaign but remains an effective way to talk about bias in a hands-on way. The activity can be easily adapted for all age levels.
Find a short film and activity guide for the Stereotype Pool activity here. [7]
Launched in 2012 by the nonprofit organization, Welcoming America, National Welcoming Week is the first nationwide event in which immigrants and U.S.-born individuals come together to create stronger communities.
Learn more at welcomingweek.org [4] and share your activites on Facebook and Twitter using the hashtag #welcomingweek.