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X-WR-CALNAME:IRIS-Integrated Refugee & Immigrant Services
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://irisct.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for IRIS-Integrated Refugee & Immigrant Services
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BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:UTC
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TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:UTC
DTSTART:20230101T000000
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251006T110000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251006T130000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20251002T144358Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251002T144615Z
UID:31408-1759748400-1759755600@irisct.org
SUMMARY:Love Thy Immigrant Neighbor
DESCRIPTION:People of faith and conscience call on Gov. Lamont and state leaders to pass meaningful immigrant protections this fall. \nMonday\, October 6\, 2025\nState Capitol\, 210 Capitol Ave.\nHartford\, CT \nSchedule of Events \n11:00 AM – Vigil at the Federal Building \n450 Main St\n11:30 AM – March to the State Capitol\n(0.6 mile walk) \n12:00 PM – Rally for Immigrant Protections \n  \nWE DEMAND: \n\nSafeguard people’s personal information\nProtect access to state courthouses\nClose loopholes for state and local cooperation with ICE\nProtect Medicaid for all who are currently covered\n\nJoin us however you can — at the Vigil\, on the March\, or at the Rally. Bilingual: English/Spanish with interpretation at the Capitol. \n 
URL:https://irisct.org/event/love-thy-immigrant-neighbor/
LOCATION:State Capitol\, 210 Capitol Ave.\, Hartford\, CT
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/October6Spanish.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251003T170000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251003T200000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20251002T132349Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251002T132349Z
UID:31386-1759510800-1759521600@irisct.org
SUMMARY:Sip & Shop Fundraiser for IRIS at Montgomery and Taggert Bookshop
DESCRIPTION:October 3\, 2025 @ 5pm-8pm \nMontgomery and Taggert Bookshop\, 26 Water Street\, Chester\, CT\, 06412 \nSave the date for a Sip & Shop Fundraiser on Friday\, 10/3! Join us at Montgomery and Taggert Bookshop\, Connecticut’s first romance-themed bookstore\, from 5pm-8pm for extra shopping hours. Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine sponsored by Chester Package store while browsing new books and gifts\, and 10% of all purchases will be donated to support Integrated Refugee and Immigrant Services of Connecticut (IRIS CT). While you’re in town\, enjoy extra hours for dining\, shopping\, and live music throughout Chester Village during Chester First Friday. \nIRIS team members will be there\, as well as executive director Maggie Mitchel Salem
URL:https://irisct.org/event/sip-shop-fundraiser-for-iris-at-montgomery-and-taggert-bookshop/
LOCATION:Montgomery and Taggert Bookshop\, 26 Water Street\, Cheste\, CT\, 06412
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ratio4x3_960.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250928T163000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250928T180000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20250918T160655Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250918T160924Z
UID:31248-1759077000-1759082400@irisct.org
SUMMARY:Steinway Artist Concert
DESCRIPTION:Bethesda Lutheran Church \nPlease join us for a concert of scintillating music of Liszt not often heard\, played by Steinway Artist Dr. Teresa Walters.  Presented by the Bethesda Music Series\, admission is free. For any who wish to make a donation\, all proceeds go to Integrated Refugee & Immigration Services. Dr. Walters is known around the world for her fabulous mastery of the piano and its music. You can explore her bio here: https://www.teresawalters.com/ \n\n\n“Teresa Walters is a splendid musician whose marvelous technical prowess and rich expressive resources create music of intimate introspection\, orchestral grandeur\, and the most minute inflections of color.”\n– The Washington Post\n\n“Her fingers give off sparks and she takes the keyboard into orbit.”\n– Budapest Sun\n\n \nBenefit for Integrated Immigrant & Refugee Services \n\nAdmission is free\, but donations for IRIS much appreciated.\nAll proceeds go to IRIS.
URL:https://irisct.org/event/steinway-artist-concert/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/theresa-walters-event-flyer.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250912T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250912T220000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20250828T211153Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250828T211153Z
UID:30878-1757703600-1757714400@irisct.org
SUMMARY:10th Annual Apizza Feast
DESCRIPTION:Pizza\, food and craft vendors\, beer\, wine and cocktail gardens and live music!\nGuinness world record attempt to be the largest pizza party!! \nOnly 5000 VIP tickets from 4 to 7 PM A1 Toyota feast free entry from 7 to 10 PM. \nNew Haven Grand Prix is from 4 to 10 PM and then DJ Funk flex 8 to 10 PM.
URL:https://irisct.org/event/10th-annual-apizza-feast/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/A-1-TOYOTA-APIZZA-FEAST-2025-Post-Online-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250811
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250819
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20250807T192042Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250807T192042Z
UID:30850-1754870400-1755561599@irisct.org
SUMMARY:Donate This  Back-to-School Season!
DESCRIPTION:Support Refugee & Immigrant Students\n\nBackpacks\nNotebooks\, folders\, binders\nPens\, pencils\, crayons\, markers\nErasers\, glue sticks\, scissors\nRulers\, highlighters\nLunch boxes & water bottles\n\n  \nDonation Drop-Off Dates & Location: \nAll material donations can be dropped off at our food pantry & warehouse facility on: \nMonday\, August 11 \nFriday\, August 15 \nMonday\, August 18 \n 🕤  From 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM \n 📍  IRIS Warehouse \n75 Hamilton Street\, New Haven\, CT \n  \nMake a Financial Gift\nYour money donation will helps us  ll in gaps and respond to urgent needs. \nOur Amazon Wishlist\nYou can also shop online and ship directly to IRIS. Scan QR code on flyer.
URL:https://irisct.org/event/donate-this-back-to-school-season/
LOCATION:IRIS Warehouse\, 75 Hamilton Street\, New Haven\, CT
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Back-to-School-Flyer-Edited-Print-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250804T000000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250917T000000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20250804T224354Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250804T225030Z
UID:30832-1754265600-1758067200@irisct.org
SUMMARY:Roots & Routes: A Call for Artists and Storytellers
DESCRIPTION:IN THEIR SHOES: \nROOTS & ROUTES \nCall For Artists & Storytellers \nBen & Jerry’s CT & the ACLU of Connecticut will be hosting an art gallery\, to amplify and uplift the stories of immigrants & refugees in our community. The art gallery centers the lived experiences of immigrants & refugees in Connecticut. \nWe are seeking visual artists\, photographers\, writers\, and creators of all ages to submit art that reflects: acelebratand love contributions immigrants & refugees make – to culture\, cuisine\, music\, \n\nWhat is joyful about the immigrant community & traditions.\nIndividual stories\, emotions\, or faces often erased in news cycles & policy decisions.\nA challenge to dominant narratives about who belongs & what defines “American”.\nArtists are invited to share stories from their own lives\, their families\, or their communities.\nYou’re welcome to interpret the prompts above metaphorically\, spiritually\, culturally\, or politically. Think of these as starting points\, not boundaries. All mediums and voices are welcome.\nLast Date to Submit: September 17\nSubmit Art Using the QR Code\n\n*All art pieces will be kept completely anonymous\, & artists are not required to submit any information\,
URL:https://irisct.org/event/a-call-for-artists-and-storytellers/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Flyer-Roots-Routes.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250730T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250730T160000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20250715T174054Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250715T174054Z
UID:30716-1753884000-1753891200@irisct.org
SUMMARY:CT CHRO Symposium\, Borders and Beyond: Immigration\, Displacement\, and Justice Today
DESCRIPTION:IRIS’ Executive Director Maggie Mitchell Salem will be joined on the panel by State Representative Geraldo Reyes\, Vice President of the American Dream Foundation Emanuela Palmares\, domestic violence and human trafficking expert at the Center for Family Justice Laura Silva\, CHRO Deputy Director Cheryl Sharp\, and immigration lawyer and Honorary Counsel to Romania Dana Bucin. \nWednesday\, July 30\n2:00–4:00 PM \nLocation: Legislative Office Building\, Hearing Room 2E\n300 Capitol Avenue\, Hartford\, CT \nVirtual Access: Microsoft Teams – REGISTER HERE
URL:https://irisct.org/event/ct-chro-symposium-borders-and-beyond-immigration-displacement-and-justice-today/
LOCATION:Legislative Office Building\, 300 Capitol Avenue\, Hartford\, CT
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/CHRO-Presents-Flyer-English-Spanish_Page_1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250720T160000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250720T180000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20250715T173132Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250715T173132Z
UID:30712-1753027200-1753034400@irisct.org
SUMMARY:Drag Bingo at Witch Bitch Thrift
DESCRIPTION:Come help us raise money for @irisct_ and join us for Jimmy Buffet Drag Bingo! 🌴🍹🏖️🦩 July 20\, 4-6 PM hosted by @frankiemcyanide ✨ \nWitch Bitch Thrift & Consignment Store\n105 Whitney Ave\nNew Haven\, CT
URL:https://irisct.org/event/drag-bingo-at-witch-bitch-thrift/
LOCATION:WITCH BITCH THRIFT\, 105 Whitney Ave\, New Haven\, CT
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/witch-bitch-bingo-for-IRIS-CT.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250717T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250717T193000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20250715T174430Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250715T174610Z
UID:30721-1752775200-1752780600@irisct.org
SUMMARY:"Good Trouble Lives On" Protest
DESCRIPTION:The “Good Trouble Lives On” protest on July 17th is a national day of action to defend and carry forward the legacy of Congressman John Lewis\, who championed the concept of “good trouble”. The rally aims to counter attacks on civil and human rights by the current administration and emphasize that power ultimately resides with the people. It’s a call to action to protect voting rights\, protest criminalization and promote social justice through non violent means.
URL:https://irisct.org/event/good-trouble-lives-on-protest/
LOCATION:New Haven Green
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/July-17-rally-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250629T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250629T220000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20250606T144128Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250613T161402Z
UID:30368-1751209200-1751234400@irisct.org
SUMMARY:Amp It Up!
DESCRIPTION:(21+) AMP it Up (Artists and Musicians for Progress) will hold a fundraising concert at Café 9 in New Haven. All proceeds from the event will be donated to IRIS. Come join us there!
URL:https://irisct.org/event/amp-it-up/
LOCATION:Cafe Nine\, 250 State St\, New Haven\, CT\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Amp-flyer-IRIS-scaled-e1749831230422.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250621T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250621T160000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20250606T143551Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250613T160941Z
UID:30364-1750510800-1750521600@irisct.org
SUMMARY:World Refugee Day Craft Fair
DESCRIPTION:To support refugee and immigrant women in honor of World Refugee Day\, IRIS will hold a craft fair with art\, crafts\, desserts\, homemade food\, henna and more. We hope to see you there! \nLocated at First Presbyterian Church\, 704 Whitney Ave.\, New Haven CT
URL:https://irisct.org/event/world-refugee-day-craft-fair/
LOCATION:First Presbyterian Church\, 704 Whitney Ave\, New Haven\, CT\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IRIS-CRAFT-FAIR-Revised-latest.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250618T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250618T210000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20250613T160630Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250613T161138Z
UID:30407-1750269600-1750280400@irisct.org
SUMMARY:Documentary Screening of the film I come from Away
DESCRIPTION:Stamford Interfaith Refugee Settlement (SIRS) and IRIS are pleased to sponsor the screening of the PBS documentary I Come From Away: An Immigrant from Maine\, an intimate look inside the immigrant community in Portland\, Maine\, as told by Nyamuon Nguany Machar\, who arrived in the U.S. as a refugee in 1995\, and David Zwalita Mota\, an asylum seeker who arrived in the U.S. in 2019. \nLocation: DiMattia Building\, Third Floor Auditorium\, 1 Public Library Plaza\, Stamford CT \nFor more information and to register\, visit https://www.fergusonlibrary.org/event/documentary-screening-i-come-away-immigrant-maine-58986
URL:https://irisct.org/event/documentary-screening-of-the-film-i-come-from-away/
LOCATION:Ferguson Library\, DiMattia Building\, Stamford\, CT
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Group-84.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250614T110000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250614T170000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20250606T144655Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250606T144849Z
UID:30372-1749898800-1749920400@irisct.org
SUMMARY:Celebrate Juneteenth!
DESCRIPTION:The goal of the Milford Connecticut Juneteenth commemoration is to celebrate the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States of America. Through this celebration\, we seek to highlight the many accomplishments of the African diaspora by showcasing the culture through food\, performing arts\, and entrepreneurship. We also seek to increase public knowledge by emphasizing the many contributions made by the descendants of Africans to the American society and the world at large.
URL:https://irisct.org/event/celebrate-juneteenth/
LOCATION:Milford Town Green\, 84 S Broad St\, Milford\, CT\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Milford-Juneteenth.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250604T183000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250604T203000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20250521T184154Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250521T184600Z
UID:30244-1749061800-1749069000@irisct.org
SUMMARY:Jonathan Blitzer at Congregation Beth Israel
DESCRIPTION:Congregation Beth Israel\, 701 Farmington Ave.\, West Hartford\, will be hosting author Jonathan Blitzer\, staff writer for the New Yorker. \nMr. Blitzer is the author of the book\, Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here: The United States\, Central America\, and the Making of a Crisis. \nHe will be at CBI on Wednesday\, June 4\, 7pm. \nThe book was a noted as a top 10 book of 2024 by the New York Times. \nRegister to attend at cbict.org \nWe can’t begin to heal our broken immigration system until we take an honest look at the political decisions and policies that brought us to this point. Mr. Blitzer will share what he has learned after more than a decade of reporting on immigration as well as powerful stories about immigrants whose lives have been deeply affected. \nHis talk will be followed by a conversation with Bob Fishman\, Founding Executive Director of CIRC (CT Immigrant and Refugee Coalition) and Maggie Mitchell Salem\, Executive Director of IRIS (Integrated Refugee & Immigrant Service). \nRiver Bend Books of West Hartford will supply our books. \nA note from them: \nAttendees can order copies through this link and we will bring their prepaid books to the event for them. \nhttps://www.riverbendbookshop.com/book/9781984880826 \nThey can note “Beth Israel event” in the comments section of checkout page to designate their event order.
URL:https://irisct.org/event/jonathan-blitzer-at-congregation-beth-israel/
LOCATION:Congregation Beth Israel\, 701 Farmington Ave.\, West Hartford\, CT
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Flyer_Author-Visit-June-2025.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250419T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250419T160000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20250417T160333Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250417T173307Z
UID:30184-1745071200-1745078400@irisct.org
SUMMARY:Earth Fest
DESCRIPTION:JOIN YSEC ON CROSS CAMPUS \nEarth Fest is Yale’s undergraduate vibrant celebration of Earth Day\, aiming to inspire and engage students\, faculty\, and the community in sustainability efforts. This annual event highlights the contributions of student groups\, local businesses\, and Yale organizations towards a sustainable future. Join us for activities\, engagement\, and support local businesses in New Haven and student groups at Yale!
URL:https://irisct.org/event/earth-fest/
LOCATION:Yale Cross Campus\, Yale Cross Campus\, 120 High St.\, New Haven\, CT\, 06511
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/earth-fest-2025.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250327T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250327T200000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20250324T143109Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250324T144643Z
UID:29985-1743098400-1743105600@irisct.org
SUMMARY:Immigration Conversation with IRIS at the South Windsor Democratic Town Committee Meeting
DESCRIPTION:The Trump administration has promised and delivered abject chaos to those seeking legal immigration to the United States. Organizations like Integrated Refugee and Immigration Services Connecticut (IRIS) are on the front lines of those seeking legal status in the United States.\n\n“Few know more about immigration than organizations that serve the immigrant community like IRIS. We have to stop demonizing people and begin a journey of meaningful understanding\,” Anitha Elango\, Chair of the South Windsor Democratic Town Committee said. \nPlease join us for an informative conversation with Maggie Mitchell Salem\, Executive Director for IRIS\, on Thursday March 27th at 6pm at the South Windsor Town HallIRI to find out the very real challenges the immigrant community faces\, the work of IRIS-CT\, and how you can help.
URL:https://irisct.org/event/immigration-conversation-with-iris-at-the-south-windsor-democratic-town-committee-meeting/
LOCATION:South Windsor Town Hall\, 1540 Sullivan Ave\, South Windsor\, CT\, 06074
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/IRIS-townhall-event-south-windsor-immigration2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250322T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250322T210000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20250319T204956Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T155347Z
UID:29962-1742666400-1742677200@irisct.org
SUMMARY:MSLC X QU IRIS Multicultural Showcase Fundraiser Event
DESCRIPTION:Come join us as we embrace the beauty of different cultures from dance performances\, cultural walks\, and other expressions of heritage. \nClick here to register
URL:https://irisct.org/event/mslc-x-qu-iris-multicultural-showcase-fundraiser-event/
LOCATION:Buckman Theater\, 275 Mt. Carmel Ave.\, Hamden\, CT\, 06518\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/iris-fundraiser-multicultural-showcase-new-haven.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250205T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250205T193000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20250202T192822Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250202T192822Z
UID:29438-1738778400-1738783800@irisct.org
SUMMARY:Light Up the Night for IRIS Vigil
DESCRIPTION:In these early days of the new administration\, federal funding for a host of worthy agencies has been suspended\, eliminated\, and then\, (maybe?) partially reinstated.  Few who depend upon that funding believe that the threat has gone away.  Meanwhile\, livelihoods and support services throughout the country hang in the balance. \nAmong the many worthy agencies affected across Connecticut\, IRIS (Integrated Refugee and Immigration Services) in New Haven has experienced tremendous whiplash.  Depending on which order is being considered\, and when\, it appears that IRIS stands to lose millions of dollars in funding\, preventing them not only from helping to resettle refugees\, but also hindering their ability to assist people in need all across the state.  Losing that funding would place thousands of people in jeopardy. \nThe First Congregational Church of Old Lyme\, together with two other churches in town (St. Ann’s and Christ the King) as well as many other residents of no particular faith\, have partnered with IRIS for the past decade\, ever since the beginning of the Syrian refugee crisis in 2015.  Indeed\, our community was the first in the state to reach out to IRIS during that crisis\, though many others soon did the same.  Before long\, a Syrian family arrived in Old Lyme and has remained here ever since\, just the way Syrians arrived in communities all across Connecticut.  Since that time\, we have helped resettle five additional families in our area from many different parts of the world\, a pattern that has unfolded all up and down the Connecticut Shoreline\, and throughout the entirety of the state. \nIRIS is one of the crown jewels of Connecticut\, helping to make us the welcoming\, hospitable\, and culturally rich state that we are.  Our communities have been improved by welcoming refugees\, and supporting immigrants\, which IRIS has facilitated. \nIf this is an opening salvo from a hostile new administration\, then the time is right for Connecticut residents who continue to believe in the sanctity of hospitality to come together\, and to push back the night. \nWith that in mind\, the First Congregational Church of Old Lyme invites friends and supporters of IRIS to join us for a candlelight vigil on Wednesday evening\, February 5th\, at 6:00 PM.  We’ll sing\, we’ll offer words of prayer\, and we’ll light up the night.  But we also have a goal: to raise $100\,000 as a gesture of goodwill and support for IRIS.  That won’t be enough.  But if similar events took place around the state\, it would go a long way. \nIRIS has given our communities so much.  They have offered support and protection to so many\, and they have enriched our lives for the relationships they helped to create.  It’s time to give a little back. \nBut more to the point\, it’s now time\, like Miriam\, to emerge from the bulrushes\, and to push back against the Pharaohs that continue to afflict the vulnerable. \nIt’s time to show who we are as residents of a diverse and welcoming state\, one that we can all be proud to live in. \nRev. Steven R. Jungkeit\, Ph.D.\nSenior Minister\nThe First Congregational Church of Old Lyme \nAll are welcome to attend the vigil on Wednesday evening.  The First Congregational Church of Old Lyme can be found at 2 Ferry Rd.\, Old Lyme\, CT 06371.
URL:https://irisct.org/event/light-up-the-night-for-iris-vigil/
LOCATION:The First Congregational Church of Old Lyme\, 2 Ferry Rd.\, Old Lyme\, CT\, 06371
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/vigil-for-iris.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250126T163000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250126T180000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20250122T172335Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250122T172335Z
UID:29261-1737909000-1737914400@irisct.org
SUMMARY:Free Concert to benefit IRIS
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://irisct.org/event/free-concert-to-benefit-iris/
LOCATION:450 Whitney Ave.\, New Haven\, CT
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/concert-to-benefit-IRIS.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250115T173000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250115T190000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20250110T204855Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250110T204855Z
UID:29191-1736962200-1736967600@irisct.org
SUMMARY:New London Town Hall - A discussion on protecting our immigrants
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://irisct.org/event/new-london-town-hall-a-discussion-on-protecting-our-immigrants/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/New-London-Townhall-English.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250109T163000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250109T173000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20250106T222427Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250107T150257Z
UID:29092-1736440200-1736443800@irisct.org
SUMMARY:Meet Your Neighbors
DESCRIPTION:Santa Vasquez is originally from the Dominican Republic and immigrated to the United States with her children in 2021. She will share her personal story\, and provide some insight into experiences of Caribbean-Americans.
URL:https://irisct.org/event/meet-your-neighbors/
LOCATION:Fair Haven Public Library\, 82 Grand Avenue\, New Haven\, CT
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/DR-island.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241205T173000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241205T193000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20241202T233150Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241202T233336Z
UID:28752-1733419800-1733427000@irisct.org
SUMMARY:Connecticut Immigration Town Hall: Here For You
DESCRIPTION:Townhall Discussion on Federal Immigration Policy: Addressing Community Concerns\nJoin us for an important town hall featuring Attorney General William Tong\, Mayor Justin Elicker\, and Senator Richard Blumenthal (likely)\, as well as IRIS staff. This event is designed to address questions and concerns from our clients and community partners regarding potential federal immigration policy changes under the incoming Trump Administration. \nOur speakers will provide insights into the anticipated actions of the administration\, their potential impact on immigrants in Connecticut\, and how local and state leadership plans to respond to protect and support our community. \nThis is a unique opportunity to hear directly from local leaders\, ask questions\, and discuss how we can work together during this pivotal time. All are welcome! \nThis event will also be available remotely and livecasted via Zoom.\nIn order to recieve the zoom link to attend the event\, please register for the event. Once you have registered\, you will recieve a zoom link to join the town hall 24 hours before the event begins. \n_______________ \nWe kindly request all attendees to maintain civility and respect during discussions on this sensitive topic. Those who disrupt the event or behave inappropriately may be asked to leave to ensure a productive and respectful environment for all. \nRegister on eventbrite here
URL:https://irisct.org/event/connecticut-immigration-town-hall-here-for-you/
LOCATION:Parish House of the United Church on the Green\, 323 Temple Street\, New Haven\, CT\, 06510
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/https___cdn.evbuc_.com_images_907736353_220741286873_1_original.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241020T113000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241020T123000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20241017T153314Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241017T155308Z
UID:27296-1729423800-1729427400@irisct.org
SUMMARY:Overview of American Immigration
DESCRIPTION:Speakers: Maggie Mitchell Salem and Tetyana Pavelo\nDate: Sunday\, 10/20/24 \nTime: 11:30am-12:30pm
URL:https://irisct.org/event/overview-of-american-immigration/
LOCATION:Buckingham Congregational Church\, 16 Cricket Lane\, Glastonbury\, CT\, 06033\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/refugees-from-syria.webp
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241015T173000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241203T193000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20241008T003915Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241015T234959Z
UID:26916-1729013400-1733254200@irisct.org
SUMMARY:Afghan Women Explore Themes of Identity and Home
DESCRIPTION:The exhibit runs Oct 3 – Dec 3 with a public reception on Tuesday\, October 15 at 5:30pm. Come enjoy our exhibit presentation\, henna by refugee women and a delicious menu prepared by Sanctuary Kitchen and Havenly.  Dari and Pashto interpreters will be provided.\n\nCRIW – The Collective for Refugee and Immigrant Women’s Wellbeing’s Expressive Arts Initiative allowed Afghan women with limited power due to culture\, gender\, ethnicity\, education and health disparities who are often unheard to tell their own stories via photographs and “story cloths”.  This will be an opportunity to learn more about your Afghan neighbors and build community. This exhibit was made possible through the generous support of the International Association of New Haven.
URL:https://irisct.org/event/afghan-women-explore-themes-of-identity-and-home/
LOCATION:New Haven Free Public Library\, Wilson Branch
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/photo-exhibit-promo.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241008
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241009
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20241008T182522Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241009T142700Z
UID:26961-1728345600-1728431999@irisct.org
SUMMARY:Hartford's Commission on Refugee and Immigrant Affairs 10th Anniversary
DESCRIPTION:Hartford’s Commission on Refugee and Immigrant Affairs invites you to join them for their 10th anniversary at the Hartford Public Library. \nTuesday\, October 8th\, 5-6:30pm. 500 Main St.\, Hartford CT 06103 \nYou’ll have the opportunity to view the touring exhibit journey of memories\, meet with community members who care about Hartford’s immigrants and refugees\, as well as hear updates on the commission’s progress and plans for the upcoming year. \nRSVP through email: hartfodcria@gmail.com
URL:https://irisct.org/event/hartfords-commission-on-refugee-and-immigrant-affairs-10th-anniversary/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/CRIA-Flyer_updated-2.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241003T143000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241003T173000
DTSTAMP:20260425T153746
CREATED:20241008T003527Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250225T204651Z
UID:26906-1727965800-1727976600@irisct.org
SUMMARY:Nuns on a Bus Immigration Roundtable
DESCRIPTION:with Mirka Dominguez-Salinas\, Manager of IRIS’ Community Resource Hub and Maggie Mitchell Salem\, Executive Director\nWe invite you to join us on October 3rd at 2:30 PM for a roundtable discussion with the “Nuns on a Bus”\, as well as Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro\, local legislation and community partners. The roundtable discussion will focus on immigration and how FHCHC is supporting immigrants coming to Connecticut and more specifically\, New Haven.  Once the roundtable discussion is complete\, we will gather outside for a short press conference and the opportunity to sign the bus! \n“Nuns on the Bus” is a social justice campaign initiated by a group of Catholic nuns in the United States. Launched by the Catholic social justice organization NETWORK\, the campaign involves nuns traveling across the country on a bus to advocate for issues such as economic justice\, healthcare access\, immigration reform\, and the need for a more compassionate society.  FHCHC is one of two stops in CT.  For more information on their cross country tour click here:  Our Stops – Nuns on the Bus 2024
URL:https://irisct.org/event/nuns-on-a-bus-immigration-roundtable/
LOCATION:Fair Haven Community Health Care\, 374 Grand Ave\, New Haven\, CT\, 06513\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://irisct.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Rep-DeLauro-0305-notb-072324-2048x1365-1.jpg
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END:VCALENDAR