Supporting immigrant entrepreneurs

Casa Azafrán was abuzz with holiday cheer last Saturday for the annual Holiday Bazar supporting our immigrant entrepreneurs. While shoppers bought art, crafts and hand crafted food they also showed their support for a welcoming community through our INDIVISIBLE campaign.

At the Raise your Heart booth, we captured photos of Tennesseans who believe in the promise of an INDIVISIBLE nation that celebrates the roots and possibilities of all its people. These photos now make up a mural at Casa Azafrán sharing messages of support and unity with those who come to Casa Azafrán to learn English, start a business, pay taxes, take a dance class or find legal help. See the album here.

In our staff kitchen the Raise your Voice tables were packed all day with Tennesseans writing postcards to our elected officials encouraging them to keep Tennessee welcoming and support immigration reform. Here are a few of the messages they shared:

“We are all Nashvillians and we are all Americans. That is what makes us the greatest country in the world.”

“Immigrants made this country great, and they continue to…”

“I am the descendant of Italian immigrants who came here 100 years ago.
Let’s not forget our roots.”

“As an immigrant to the U.S. during the Cold War, I understand what it is like to find sanctuary in the U.S.”

“Never lose sight of the melting pot we call America.”

A big gracias to the entrepreneurs who brought their handcrafted goods, delicious food and beautiful art. The businesses represent immigrant and local Nashvillian entrepreneurs who have participated in our micro-enterprise programs and culinary incubator. We invite you to support these entrepreneurs throughout the year!