Vecinos Unidos: Immigrant Allyship Workshop brought together queer community members, immigrant advocates, artists, and allies to deepen collective understanding, build practical skills, and strengthen solidarity.

Care and accessibility were central throughout the day. Open Space Therapy Collective curated a team of LGBTQ+ therapists who provided real time emotional support, reinforcing the coalition’s commitment to meeting community needs not only politically, but humanely.

The core of the event centered education and action. CHIRLA led a Know Your Rights workshop offering concrete guidance on navigating interactions with immigration authorities, equipping attendees with tools to protect themselves, their families, and their neighbors. Later, organizer and activist Veronica Velasquez facilitated an Allyship in Action workshop, inviting participants to move beyond intention into practical, accountable solidarity.

True to the coalition’s values, the day also centered joy and culture as forms of resistance and care. DJ Yungbubbe set the tone with energizing music, a comedy break hosted by Allison Smith brought laughter and release, and a live performance by El Río closed the day with music rooted in love, liberation, and ancestral memory. Local vendors and shared food created space for connection and community throughout the afternoon.

As the gathering came to a close, one message was clear. Immigrant justice and queer liberation are deeply intertwined, and our strength grows when we organize together.