1st. Annual Community Celebration.
We would like to acknowledge the remarkable journey of our Portland Refugee Support Group and express our gratitude for the invaluable partnerships with community organizations, community collaborators, and volunteers that have stood beside us as we work to eliminate barriers for our refugee and asylum seeker community members.
We want to commemorate this moment and celebrate the sense of community we've found in each other.
Click here to view event booklet.
Ukrainian Singing Performance.
Inna Kovtun is a refugee from Ukraine and DAWN volunteer. She is a performer, cultural ambassador, a master of music, and a guardian of Ukrainian traditions. She is a true luminary in the world of folk music and ethnography. Inna was one of the instructors of DAWN summer camp held at the PRSG space.
Inna's singing style is versatile, encompassing both heartfelt and energetic songs. The heartfelt songs carry the weight of cultural stories, history, and personal experiences, creating a poignant atmosphere. On the other hand, the energetic songs created a lively, celebratory atmosphere.
Her ability to fill the space with both emotions, ranging from the profound to the joyful, speaks to her skill as a performer and her capacity to engage and connect with the audience on different emotional levels. This versatility could make her performances memorable and impactful, leaving a lasting impression on those who experience her music.
Hoorah Dance Group.
Hoorah Dance Group is an Iranian folk dance group located in Portland, OR. Hoorah dedicated their performance to the courageous women of Iran valiantly advocating for Woman-Life-Freedom.
The performance was of an Azari Turkish dance characterized by lively melodies and fast-paced movements, which create an atmosphere of joy and celebration. The energetic and rapid footwork reflected the liveliness of the dancers, often accompanied by rhythmic music. Azari Turkish dance also possesses a delicate and romantic aspect. The dancers typically stand straight with their heads held high and proud in reminiscences of their homeland of Azerbaijan with its tall mountain, joyous rhythmic music, and love and devotion to its plentiful nature.
Panel Discussion
Catering.
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Piroshki: traditional hand-held pies, beef OR vegetarian potato
Caterer: Izobilie Euro Foods
Empanadas: fried turnover consisting of pastry and filling, beef OR potato-cheese
Caterer: El Pilon PDX
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Shawarma platter: salad and hummus with spit-roasted layers of meat sliced and served with pita.
Caterer: Sheesh Shawarma
Adas polo (V): aromatic basmati rice, lentils, caramelized onion, and spices.
Caterer: Roya Catering (504-443-5715)
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Maamoul: shortbread cookie stuffed with date paste, dusted with powdered sugar
Knafe: shredded dough stuffed with ishtaa cream, drizzled with sugar syrup
Caterer: Lamoosh (IG: @lamoshcatering)
Sheer Chai: pink chai is a traditional Afghan drink, often served at celebrations to toast good health.
Caterer: Marwa Chai (503-750-9432)
