The City of Philadelphia announced today that Welcoming Week will run from Friday, September 8 to Sunday, September 17. Welcoming Week is a national initiative that brings together immigrants, refugees and those born in the United States, to celebrate the contributions of neighbors of all backgrounds to build inclusive places and achieve collective prosperity. In Philadelphia, the Office of Immigrant Affairs (OIA) helps organize events and activities across the city.

This year’s Welcoming Week will include the Celebrate Asia Festival, a visit from Little Amal, a Mural Arts tour, and a career fair, among other events curated by the OIA and its partners that embody the theme of “Destination Belonging.”

“I’m proud of Philadelphia’s commitment to Welcoming Week for the past seven years,” said Mayor Jim Kenney. “This week highlights the vibrancy of our immigrant and refugee communities and serves as a reminder that everyone belongs in Philadelphia. We hope residents take advantage of this opportunity to celebrate all of the cultures that make up our city. I’d like to thank Comcast and Visit Philly for their sponsorship.”

“Welcoming Week is a national celebration led by our partners at Welcoming America, that honors the contributions of immigrants and recognizes that our communities are stronger —and more prosperous — when we are welcoming,“ said Alain Joinville, Director of Strategic Communications and Programs at Philadelphia Office of Immigrant Affairs. “For over seven years, Philadelphia has shown its commitment to this national cause by coordinating events throughout the city during Welcoming Week each September. This year Philadelphia will host dozens of events that demonstrate why Philadelphia is a welcoming city.”

OIA believes that being a Welcoming City is much more than being friendly, tolerant or peaceful – communities need intentional, inclusive policies, practices and norms that enable all residents to live, thrive and contribute fully. 

Residents can also support immigrant communities by contributing to the Philadelphia Welcoming Fund. Launched by OIA and the Mayor’s Fund for Philadelphia, the Welcoming Fund provides funding to nonprofit organizations in the Philadelphia area that support arriving asylum seekers. 

Contributions to the Philadelphia Welcoming Fund can be made on its website.