Issaquah Welcoming Week
Overview
The annual Issaquah Welcomes You event returns in-person on September 9, 2022! This year’s national Welcoming Week theme is “Where We Belong.” We are honored to elevate community-rooted ideas and programs. Join us as we bring back much cherished in-person celebrations that highlight our rich cultures from around the world.
Background
Welcoming Week is a national event when a chorus of thousands—in communities large and small, rural and urban—celebrate the benefits of an inclusive society and deepen their commitment to creating places that are welcoming to everyone, including immigrants, refugees and those who have been systemically excluded.
Eastside Mayors’ Joint Proclamation
The Mayors of Bellevue, Issaquah, Kirkland, Redmond and Sammamish jointly proclaimed September 9-18, 2022 as Eastside Welcoming Week and invite the community to engage in opportunities during Eastside Welcoming Week and beyond to learn; connect across differences; take joint action to achieve a welcoming, equitable and inclusive community; and reaffirm their commitment to continue to examine and adopt programs, policies and practices that improve our efforts towards achieving equity for all now and in the future.
2022 Welcome Week Events
Issaquah Welcomes You, Friday, September 9, 5-8 p.m. at the Issaquah Community Center
Come together for a free, family-friendly event to celebrate the cultural diversity of our community. Festivities include music, world dances, an art exposition, informational booths and food trucks. Wearing traditional clothing is encouraged. Everyone is welcome!
Story Stroll
Downtown Issaquah
This year will feature Peace Train by Cat Stevens, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds. This Story Stroll starts at the Issaquah library and heads north along Front Street. More information to follow.
Issaquah Highlands
Story Stroll in the Issaquah Highlands will feature Be Who You Are by Todd Parr and will be hosted at the Grand Ridge Plaza. More information to follow.
Welcoming Economies
Belonging Begins with Us – Are You on the Map?
Welcoming Economies is one way to ensure that Issaquah businesses are connected and thriving in Issaquah. Our diverse businesses make our community more vibrant by expanding cultural offerings, creating jobs, and attracting new customers to our community. Are you an Issaquah business owners and employees? Add a pin to the “Belonging Begins with Us” map to showcase where you grew up. Whether it’s Iowa or India, we value your contribution to our community. Please contact Jen Davis Hayes with any questions.