The YMCA of Greater New York’s New Americans Initiative, in partnership with Welcoming America, YMCA of the USA, the Queens Museum, Get Empowered, I am an Immigrant, and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs will be hosting the National Kickoff for Welcoming Week, 2017!

The event will be held on the Great Lawn in front of the Queens Museum. Dynamic and interactive music, dance and multicultural, healing-arts entertainment will be lead by Get Empowered!, joined by special celebrity guests Emmy Award Winner, Obba Babatundé and Paul Simon’s Bassist and Percussionist, Bakithi Kumalo, will be joining us as we create an atmosphere of welcoming our newest neighbors and build bridges among communities! Following remarks and multicultural music and dance presentations, enjoy several free drop-in artmaking stations and music workshops.

Join us for an afternoon of unity, community and fun activities in a safe, welcoming atmosphere!

Free and open to all. Reservations are appreciated but not required.

In case of rain, the event will move inside the Queens Museum.

About the Presenter: YMCA of Greater New York’s New Americans Initiative

For more than 100 years, New York City’s YMCA has embraced New Americans, beginning with our settlement projects on Ellis Island in 1909 to the present.

From English language classes to cultural integration and citizenship preparation courses, our Centers help immigrants reach their goals and integrate into American society, while contributing their skills and values to New York City communities. Immigrants recognize what the Y represents around the world – opportunity, community and social services for all.

While the City is ever-changing, what remains constant is the Y’s commitment to being a steadfast anchor for immigrants seeking to fulfill their American dreams. Today the YMCA remains unwavering in this work.

The YMCA of Greater New York celebrates inclusion as a hallmark of our historic legacy, and we believe that everyone, regardless of their race, color, faith, or creed, should have an opportunity to succeed in New York City.