The Journey to Jacksonville exhibit aims to bring back a sense of connection by creating a space for refugees to tell their stories and giving others the opportunity to listen and learn about their neighbors. The goal is to empower and encourage the city’s large refugee and immigrant population, and to create a more understanding, welcoming, and safer Jacksonville.
ARTSee & Shop Gallery Exhibit Opening
The opening reception was on February 6, 2021. Food was served from local restaurants, including Wen’s House of Leaf & Bean (dumplings, rejuvenating tea, vegan tofu salad rolls), Levan Grill (olives and za’atar pizza), and drinks from Kookaburra Coffee and Saji George’s authentic homemade chai. The exhibit featured art by Dar Salaam Mouss, WeaveTales intern Gabriela, Dima Kroma, and Samia Rustum.
Eritrean Coffee in Honor of Black History Month.
The exhibit was hosted on February 21, 2021, at the ARTSee & Shop Gallery from 2-4 PM, Liya Negasi demonstrated how to make and serve traditional Eritrean coffee in honor of Black History Month.
International Women’s Day Cultural Celebration
On March 7, 2021, at the ARTSee & Shop Gallery Wen Raiti and Saji George shared the benefits and importance of traditional Chinese and Indian teas to celebrate International Women’s Day.
Jacksonville Airport Exhibit
The Journey to Jacksonville stories was on display at the Jacksonville International Airport through June 30, 2021, in Concourse Terminals A and C.
University of North Florida
In partnership with WeaveTales, Hicks Honors College at UNF, and Thomas G. Carpenter Library, Journey to Jax traveled to the University of North Florida. Dar Salam, Wen Rait spoke to over 200 honors students on August 31, 2021, and the exhibit will be on the 3rd floor of the Thomas G. Carpenter Library until September 30, 2021.
