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Community and Special Events
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2024
Santas of the World Display at the Arcade in Cleveland
A dozen Santas were salvaged from National City Bank in Cleveland during its redevelopment, where they were originally displayed in the grand lobby over 50 years ago. Inspired by the book Santas of the World, the display celebrated the cultural traditions of Cleveland's early immigrant populations. his year, Historic Gateway Neighborhood Corporation partnered with cultural institutions, the Italian American Museum of Cleveland, the Julia De Burgos Cultural Arts Center, and the Polish American Cultural Center. The added displays showcasing holiday traditions from Italy, Puerto Rico, and Poland add depth to the experience, bringing festive traditions from around the world into the heart of Cleveland.
Picasso and Paper Special Exhibition - Cleveland Museum of Art
The long-anticipated exhibition at the Cleveland Museum of Art (CMA), Picasso and Paper, offers a groundbreaking new look at Pablo Picasso's lifelong experimentation with paper. Opening December 8, 2024, and on display through March 23, 2025, in both the Kelvin and Eleanor Smith Foundation Exhibition Hall and Gallery spaces, Picasso and Paper showcases nearly 300 works spanning Picasso's almost eight-decade career.
Showcasing nearly 300 works spanning the artist’s career, the exhibition highlights Picasso’s relentless exploration of paper. His appreciation of and experimentation with the material is revealed in the works ranging from collages of cut-and-pasted papers to sculptures from pieces of torn and burnt paper, manipulated photographs, drawings in virtually all available media, and prints in an array of techniques.
The largest piece, (about 10' x 14.5 ') is Femmes à leur toilette and it is a collage of cut-and-pasted papers. This is the first time it has been exhibited in the United States.
Fatima Family Center Thanksgiving featuring Retired Pro Basketball Players
The Fatima Family Center serves Cleveland's Hough community by providing events, recreational and educational opportunities, and supportive services for youth, families, adults and seniors. A staple of the Hough community, (it's right across from historic League Park at 6600 Lexington) Fatima Family Center offers programs and services for all ages and all members of the community. Among its many services for the community they hosted a Thanksgiving turkey and groceries giveaway on Tuesday November 26, 2024
What made the event extra special was the partnership with the Cleveland Chapter of the National Basketball Retired Players Association Everyone was excited to see the retired basketball stars helping out. And they weren't just there for photo ops or window dressing - they worked!
Campy Russell, Derick Polk, Lawrence Boston and Manny Leaks with Dan Hanson who was feeling short
Spotting and Avoiding Scams for Ethnic Communities and beyond
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is a government agency that protects people from frauds and scams. Unfortunately, scammer often target communities that they feel are vulnerable. That may be senior citizens, immigrants or members of ethnic communities. The FTC partnered with Ethnic Media Services (EMS) and hosted an event in Cleveland Ohio on September 24, 2024 dealing with Spotting and Avoiding Scams - especially for the ethnic communities.
Experts from several agencies were joined by ethnic community leaders and members of ethnic media outlets for a robust and informative session.
Speakers from the FTC, Legal Aid and Cuyahoga County at the Scam event
Cleveland has 26 sister cities and most of these cities have good relationship with Cleveland and are tied with business, trade, educational or cultural projects and exchanges. As part of Welcoming Week 2024, Global Cleveland hosted an event at the Cleveland Public Library that showcased the city's sister city relationships.
Welcoming Week group including Mayor Georgine Welo, County Executive Chris Ronayne and Joe Cimperman
Cleveland Police estimated that between 35 and 40,000 people attended the 78th annual One World Day at some point during the day. One World Day has been the official event of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation since 1946.
Ukrainian Garden on One World Day
One World Day began at 11 AM with a Naturalization Ceremony where new citizens (from about 20 countries) were sworn in by Honorable Judge J. Philip Calabrese. It was an inspiring and emotional ceremony. New citizens were so proud and happy and shared their joy with family members.
New citizens at Naturalization Ceremony at One World Day
Tens of thousands visited the 40+ Gardens, Children's Village, Marketplaces, Beer Gardens, Food Trucks and more. People walked, rode bikes and scooters or rode the free busses, trams and golf carts to visit as many Gardens as possible.
The Parade of Flags was also a record breaker. Over 1500 marchers from over 50 heritages marched in colorful costumes carrying flags.
Cleveland was the proud host of the 2024 Pan-American Masters Games from July 12-21, 2024. A major event of the International Masters Games Association, the Games offer an opportunity to showcase competitive spirit and athletic ability of masters athletes on a global stage. Thousands of athletes from 6 continents (sorry Antarctica), 48 states and more than 70 countries came to Cleveland in a celebration of health, vitality, friendship and an active lifestyle at any age.
It was the largest international event in Cleveland's history. The Games had only been in the Western hemisphere twice before - in Rio de Janeiro and Vancouver.
American Nationalities Movement Captive Nations Event and Freedom Awards
The American Nationalities Movement held their annual Captive Nations event on Thursday July 18, 2024. Captive Nations Week was first recognized in 1959 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower at the urging of future Cleveland Mayor Ralph Perk Sr. and Congressmen Charles Vanik and US Senator Frank Lausche. Captive Nations Week has been supported each 3rd week in July by every US president since.
Pamela Dorazio Dean, Judge Perk, Irene Morrow and Mayor Biasiotta
World on Stage Community Night - Glenville's Got Talent
Every summer the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation hosts a series of free World on Stage concerts at the Centennial Peace Plaza on MLK Blvd. in Cleveland. On July 18, 2024 there was a Community Celebration with the Famicos Foundation and the 2nd annual Glenville's Got Talent competition.
World on Stage Drum Concert in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens
Every summer the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation hosts a series of free World on Stage concerts at the Centennial Peace Plaza on MLK Blvd. in Cleveland. The first concert of Summer 2024 was on June 29, 2024 and the focus was Percussion of the World.
The unique-in-the-world Cleveland Cultural Gardens have begun their annual season of summer concerts, cultural events and performances. Spanning over 250 acres in Rockefeller Park, the Gardens always need help planting, weeding, raking and so on. WKYC Studios and the Cleveland-based Random Acts of Kindness Everywhere organization (RAKE) teamed up for a summertime spruce-up of some of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens on a steamy Saturday morning.
WKYC Meteorologist Anthony Copeland with anchors Lynna Lai, Jay Crawford and Christi Paul
Africa & Byzantium Special Exhibition - Cleveland Museum of Art
The new exhibition at the Cleveland Museum of Art, Africa & Byzantium, considers the complex artistic relationships between northern and eastern African Christian kingdoms and the Byzantine Empire from the fourth century CE and beyond.
The first international loan exhibition to treat this subject, the show includes more than 160 works of secular and sacred art from across geographies and faiths, including large-scale frescoes, mosaics, and luxury goods such as metalwork, jewelry, panel paintings, architectural elements, textiles, and illuminated manuscripts.
Diptych with Twelve Apostles and Saint Paul, c. 1700 - Ethiopia
Pastor John Betters has hosted a Taste of Nations event at Ss. Robert and William Catholic School in Euclid for the last 15 years to share the diversity of the students and community. The 2024 event included rooms for Eastern Europe, Germany, Senegal and Western Africa, Mexico and Puerto Rico, Southern Soul and Ireland.
Each year the Rotary Club of Cleveland honors a person or organization with their International Service Award. In 2024, the award went to the non-profit organization Esperanza. Executive Director Victor Ruiz accepted the award.
Beverly Ghent-Skrzynski, Victor Ruiz and Ingrida Bublys
The ribbon was cut at a new Welcoming Center in Cuyahoga County on February 14, 2024. It will provide Immigrant, Refugee and Language Services. Services provided include: Workforce training, Educational Services, Healthcare, Legal support, Housing and Public benefits.
Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne leads the ribbon cutting
Each year we like to gather an eclectic group of friends and business associates for a holiday lunch. 75 techies, media, non-profits, politicians, business, cultural - they were all represented at Bo Loong. Of course there were many friends from Cleveland's international communities.
Dan Hanson, Ingrida Bublys, Carmen Blackwell and Slovenian Consul General Alenka Jerak
Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation Christmas Holiday Celebration
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation (CCGF)is the governing body for all its member gardens. It acts as an advocate for the gardens, works to help preserve and promote them, and acts as a liaison between the Gardens, the City of Cleveland, and partner organizations. Each year they host a holiday dinner meeting for board members, delegates and friends of the Gardens. On December 10, 2023 they gathered at the Centennial Peace Plaza and then at the St Casimir Church social hall.
Members of the community were invited to have hot chocolate and cookies and make ornaments for the tree as the Gardens delegates led the singing of Christmas carols.
American Nationalities Movement Christmas Program and Freedom Awards
The American Nationalities Movement (ANM) was formed for the purpose of uniting all the nationalities in the United States in the goal to educate, advocate and represent their interests of all the diverse ethnic groups to the public and mostly to the political leaders of the United States. They hosted their Annual Program and Christmas Party on December 9, 2023 at Holy Spirit Party Center in Parma Ohio. Three honorees were presented the Freedom Award: Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, Jim Trakas and Ohio State Senator Matt Dolan.
Ralph Perk Jr., Senator Matt Dolan, Archbishop Timothy Broglio, Jim Trakas and Irene Morrow
Global Cleveland is a non-profit organization that attracts, welcomes and connects international newcomers to economic, social and educational opportunities in Cleveland and Cuyahoga County. Their 2023 annual meeting was held at the Ariel International Center on December 7, 2023.
The 77th annual One World Day broke records for attendance and participation. Cleveland Police estimated that over 50,000 people attended at some point during the day. One World Day has been the official event of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation since 1946.
The Parade of Flags was also a record breaker. Over 1500 marchers from 53 heritages marched in colorful costumes carrying flags.
Stephanie A. Urchick, Rotary International President-Elect, in Cleveland
The Rotary Club of Cleveland welcomed Stephanie A. Urchick, Rotary International President-Elect to Cleveland. Among her activities was a meeting and presentation at the historic Union Club in Cleveland.
One World Day Preview with Fox 8's Kickin' it with Kenny Crumpton
Fox 8's Kickin' it with Kenny Crumpton featured a preview of One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens on Thursday August 10, 2023. There were appearances and performances from Pacific Paradise Entertainment, LENAC Native American group, FICA Indians and Cajun food from the Dawg Bowl.
A favorite moment was when the two Indian groups (Asian and Native American) got together.
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation presented a series of World on Stage events at the Centennial Peace Plaza in the Gardens to showcase various heritages such as African, Middle Eastern, Hispanic and Asian. On Saturday August 5, 2023 a special community night was presented by the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation and Famicos Foundation. The evening began with a performance by Russell Thompson and Free Agent.
Russell Thompson and Free Agent
This was followed by the first annual Glenville's Got Talent competition. Acts submitted a video of their performance and the best were chosen to appear on stage.
American Nationalities Movement Captive Nations Event and Freedom Awards
The American Nationalities Movement held their annual Captive Nations event on Thursday July 20, 2023. Captive Nations Week was first recognized in 1959 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower at the urging of future Cleveland Mayor Ralph Perk Sr. and Congressmen Charles Vanik and US Senator Frank Lausche. Captive Nations Week has been supported each 3rd week in July by every US president since.
Judge Perk, Irene Morrow and the honorees Laurel Tombazzi, Andrea Meszaros and Tom Patton
Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation Election Ceremony
Each year the newly elected members of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation (CCGF) board of directors is sworn in at a ceremony at a different ethnic location. Thanks to new board member Lou Frangos and his wife Ann the venue in 2023 was the hall of the beautiful and historic Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland.
Besides the swearing in and official business there were performances by the Annunciation Senior Dancers, a Greek band and delicious food.
Members of the Turkish and Syrian communities in Cleveland Ohio gathered with family, friends and supporters in the Syrian Cultural Garden on MLK Blvd. on the evening of Friday February 10, 2023. Leena Zahra from the Syrian community and Mehmet Gencer from the Turkish community spoke at a prayer vigil lit by candles.
One young lady holding a picture of her best friend who was killed in the earthquake told how her friends and family back in Syria were reporting that dozens of family members had been killed. The crowd learned of suggested places to donate funds and foods and prayed for the victims.
Everyone seems to know Groundhog's Day but here in NEOhio we have another animal that predicts the weather. John Niedzialek rescued an abandoned kitten on the footsteps of St. Casimir Polish Church on Cleveland's east side at what many are now calling "Cleveland's Miraculous Polish Church" after it reopened on July 15, 2012. He named it Concord Casimir (as opposed to the groundhog Punxsutawney Phil) and each year since John dons a top hat and has a pierogi ceremony to see what the cat predicts. John says that it's all in the way Casimir eats his pierogi.
Concord Casimir eating pierogi and predicting the weather
When asked about a cat predicting the weather John points to Casimir's long streak of successes and asks, "In any case, why would anyone listen to a groundhog?"
Global Cleveland hosted a Leadership Reception at the Union Club on January 18, 2023.
They honored outgoing chair David Fleshler for his outstanding leadership as Global Cleveland's Board Chair. David Fleshler is Vice Provost for International Affairs, Case Western Reserve University.
They then welcomed Joe Marinucci as the next Board of Directors Chair. Joe Marinucci was Former President and CEO, Downtown Cleveland Alliance.
Each year we like to gather an eclectic group of friends and business associates for a holiday lunch. Media, non-profits, politicians, business and, of course, lots of our ethnic cultural friends they were all represented.
The food and atmosphere at Emperor's Palace in Old Chinatown is always terrific and they opened up just for our 70 or so guests
Margaret Wong
Rania Abbadi and Lisa Wong
See how to get invited next year, who was there and view:
Global Cleveland is a non-profit organization that attracts, welcomes and connects international newcomers to economic, social and educational opportunities in Cleveland and Cuyahoga County. Their 2022 annual meeting was held at the County Library in Parma on December 8, 2022. They also honored 5 community leaders including our own Dan Hanson.
American Nationalities Movement honors Senator Rob Portman and Tony Brancatelli
On December 10, 2022 the American Nationalities Movement (ANM) presented Tony Brancatelli with their Freedom Award. They also honored US Senator Rob Portman for his years of outstanding service to the ethnic communities.
Valerie Schwonek, Mike Polensek, Rob Portman, Irene Morrow, Tony Brancatelli and Ralph Perk Jr.
On November 16th, 2022 Google launched its partnership with 18 world-class Cleveland institutions to bring the city's culture -past and present -online on its Google Arts & Culture platform and app at goo.gle/explorecleveland.
Cleveland is the sixth US city to launch on Google Arts & Culture. With 18+ partners, 80+ stories, 37,000+ artifacts, 90+ videos, and 10+ sites captured in 360° Museum Street View, the project celebrates the city's cultural DNA as an industrial giant with cultural refinement.
Google Arts & Culture Cleveland Groups
For the first time, everyone everywhere can engage with these organizations across the city in one digital location and discover its unique culture--from art world heavyweights like the Cleveland Museum of Art, and musical legend-makers like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and only-in-Cleveland collections like Karamu House and FRONT International and the Cleveland Cultural Gardens.
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation (CCGF) hosted a Gala event Friday October 28, 2022. It featured speeches by CCGF President Dr. Wael Khoury and Cleveland Foundation CEO Ronn Richard.
There were performances by Greek, Peruvian and Chinese dancers.
Stars of Summer Annual International Piano and Vocal Competition
The Stars of Summer annual international piano and vocal competition took place in the summer of 2022 and winners of the competition performed at a gala concert. It began with a performance by students of the School of Cleveland Ballet who performed Waltz of the Flowers from The Nutcracker by Tchaikovsky. They performed outside on the stage of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Centennial Peace Plaza.
Cleveland Ballet School students
Each of the Stars of Summer then performed for the audience. The participants were backed by the Cleveland Stars Orchestra led by conductor Lisa Goldman.
One of the highlights of the event was the Cleveland premiere of the Ukrainian Concerto # 2 by composer Alexander Peskanov by the winners of the Piano Concerto Prize.
One World Day has been the official event of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation since 1946. About 40,000 people visited the gardens on One World Day 2022 on August 28.
Dr. Wael Khoury, Mayor Justin Bibb and Grand Marshal Dominique Moceanu in the Parade of Flags
American Nationalities Movement honors United Ukrainian Organizations of Ohio
The American Nationalities Movement (ANM) was formed for the purpose of uniting all the nationalities in the United States in the goal to educate, advocate and represent their interests of all the diverse ethnic groups to the public and mostly to the political leaders of the United States.
Each year since 1959 they celebrate Captive Nations Week. On July 21, 2022 they honored the United Ukrainian Organizations of Ohio with their Freedom Award.
The Cleveland Tall Ships Festival returned to Lake Erie for a 4-day maritime celebration. Serving as the second host port of the TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE® Great Lakes 2022 race series, Cleveland was honored to welcome a fleet of historic tall ships from harbors through the United States, Canada and Spain.
Cleveland Council on World Affairs honored by Cleveland Rotary
The Rotary Club of Cleveland's International Service Award was presented to the Cleveland Council on World Affairs on April 21, 2022. This award celebrates Rotary International's vision of a "world where people unite and take action to create lasting change - across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves." It was presented to an organization that that was founded in 1923 to promote world peace.
Cleveland Rotary's Ingrida Bublys and Yunus Badat with CCWA CEO Carina Van Vliet
Rotary Club of Cleveland honors Chris Ronayne of University Circle Inc.
Each year the Community Service Committee of the Rotary Club of Cleveland selects an individual or organization that has demonstrated outstanding "Service Above Self" in the Greater Cleveland area. The 2021 honoree was Chris Ronayne of University Circle Inc.
75th annual One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens
August 29, 2021
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation hosted the 75th annual One World Day on August 29, 2021. The Covid-19 pandemic caused the 2020 One World Day to be cancelled but police estimates say that about 15,000 people visited the Gardens and attended the 2021 One World Day.
Each year when the The Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation hosts the annual One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens, ClevelandPeople.com makes sure everyone has fun with maps.
The ClevelandPeople.com booth had large 5' x 7' maps of Asia, Europe, Africa, South America, North America and the Middle East. Visitors placed a colorful dot on the map where there ancestors (or they) came from. At the end of the day almost 80 different countries were represented and various areas within countries. A real display of Cleveland's diversity.
Here are a few sample pictures of people finding their heritage on the maps.
Captive Nations Week was first recognized in 1959 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower at the urging of future Cleveland Mayor Ralph Perk Sr. and Congressmen Charles Vanik and US Senator Frank Lausche. Captive Nations Week has been supported each 3rd week in July by every US president since. The American Nationalities Movement prsented the Feedom Award to Ambasador Edward F. Crawford and Ohio Supreme Court Justice Sharon L. Kennedy.
Justice Sharon Kennedy, Justice Terry O'Donnell, Judge Ralph Perk, Irene Morrow and Doug Bugie (for Ambassador Crawford)
Captive Nations Week was first recognized in 1959 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower at the urging of future Cleveland Mayor Ralph Perk Sr. and Congressmen Charles Vanik and US Senator Frank Lausche. Captive Nations Week has been supported each 3rd week in July by every US president since.
The annual Captive Nations week dinner event could not be held because of the Coviv19 pandemic so American Nationalities Movement President Judge Ralph Perk Jr. and a few community leaders gathered (socially distant) in the Czech Cultural Garden in Cleveland.
Community leaders in Czech Garden - Michael Patterson, Joseph Meissner, Pierre Bejjani, Ralph Perk Jr. and Paul Burik
Cleveland Cultural Gardens Centennial Peace Plaza progress
The first of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens was established in 1916 making the Gardens over 100 years old. The Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation (CCGF) is the non-profit volunteer-led group that governs the Gardens. They decided to honor the centennial by making a gift to the community in the form of the Centennial Peace Plaza.
The motto of the CCGF is "Peace through Mutual Understanding" and the Plaza is designed to be a gathering place for the community to share music, dance, art, education, camaraderie and share ethnic heritages.
The multi-ton medallion is just a few feet away from the much-traveled MLK Boulevard so will be a focal point of the Plaza.
Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation honored by Cleveland Rotary
The Rotary Club of Cleveland's International Service Award was presented to the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation on February 20, 2020. This award celebrates Rotary International's vision of a "world where people unite and take action to create lasting change - across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves." It was presented to an organization that for more than 100 years has served as a celebration of our city's diversity, sharing a common goal of peace through mutual understanding.
Cleveland Rotary leaders with Dr. Wael Khoury: Yunus Badat, Dr. Wael Khoury, Rotary President Art Ward, Ingrida Bublys and Jerry Smith
One World Day 2019 in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation hosted the 74th annual One World Day on August 25, 2019. Police estimates say that over 30,000 people visited the Gardens and attended One World Day.
A highlight of One World Day is the Parade of Flags where people in costumes of their heritage carry the flags. This year was undoubtedly the largest and most colorful in memory. Efforts were made to include communities that do not (yet) have a Cultural Garden and they were warmly welcomed.
A very special event took place just as the Parade units reached the reviewing stand. The Baltic Way or Baltic Chain was a peaceful political demonstration that occurred on 23 August 1989. Approximately two million people joined their hands to form a human chain spanning 675.5 kilometers (419.7 mi) across the three Baltic states – Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, which were considered at the time to be constituent republics of the Soviet Union.
To commemorate this historic event and in keeping with the Cultural Gardens motto of "Peace through Mutual Understanding" a remembrance of the Baltic Way took place.
The beginning of the lengthy Baltic Way remembrance
After the Parade of Flags, people gathered in the Serbian Garden for the traditional Welcome and Naturalization Ceremony. This began with the posting of the colors by a Cleveland Police Color Guard and the singing of the National Anthem led by the Kosovo Choir.
Then there were remarks from Serbian Cultural Garden president Alex Machaskee, Cleveland Cultural Gardens president Dr. Wael Khoury, past-president Sheila Crawford, Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson, County Council's Yvonne Conwell and City Council's Kevin Conwell.
Judge Solomon Oliver Jr. administered the Oath of Citizenship
That was followed by the highlight of the Naturalization Ceremony: the swearing in of almost 2 dozen new citizens from all over the world.
American Nationalities Movement Captive Nations Awards Ceremony
The American Nationalities Movement of Ohio held its 57th annual Captive Nations dinner program on Thursday July 18, 2019 and honored Rick DeChant Jr., John Sabol and Gia Hoa Ryan with the Freedom Award.
Irene Morrow, Rick DeChant, Gia Hoa Ryan, John Sabol and Ralph Perk Jr.
Cleveland Cultural Gardens Centennial Peace Plaza Groundbreaking Ceremony
On June 11, 2019 the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new Centennial Peace Plaza in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens.
ICC-WIN 12th annual Summit on the State of the international community in Cleveland
For 12 years, the International Community Council - Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) hosts an annual Summit on the state of the international community in Cleveland and Northeast Ohio. The 2019 topic was very important and timely: The 2020 Census and how to achieve a complete count.
First annual Global Cleveland Sister Cities Conference
Cleveland is a sister city with over 20 other cities from around the world. Global Cleveland worked with other organizations to promote and enhance these relationships with the first annual Sister Cities Conference held at the Cleveland Public Library.
David Fleshler, Felton Thomas, Sherrie Miday, Valarie McCall, Hiro Fujita and Joe Cimperman
The American Nationalities Movement’s Articles of Incorporation list among its goals:
To unite all nationalities for a common understanding of our responsibilities as citizens of the United States;
To overcome the differences of the past, and to create a unified image of all nationalities working for a common cause;
To protect our freedom and to work for the freedom and self-determination for all the people of all captive nations of the world.
Despite all the efforts to liberate humanity there still are tyrants and dictators holding people in captivity. Thus, there is still work to do and the American Nationalities Movement reconfirms its dedication to Freedom for all people. In 1990, the American Nationalities Movement held the first “freedom Celebration” and awarded “freedom” medals to its steadfast supporters including one to President George H. W. Bush.
On December 15, 2018 three individuals were honored: Gabriella Nadas from the Hungarian Community, Valerie Schwonek-Blazey from the Polish Community and Martin J. Hrabik from the Czech Community.
Watch the video of the awards ceremony by clicking on the arrow.
International Cleveland Community Day in the Cleveland Museum of Art
International Cleveland Community Day at the Cleveland Museum of Art is a celebration of the rich diversity of our region's multiethnic communities, featuring traditional music and dance performances, cultural displays, and ingallery experiences. During this vibrant afternoon, visitors enjoyed presentations from more than 50 community groups expressing the continued vitality of the global cultures and arts that enliven our city.
PIAST group on International Cleveland Community Day
73rd annual One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation hosted the 73rd annual One World Day on September 16, 2018. Police estimates say that 15,000 - 18,000 people visited the Gardens and attended One World Day. The focus this year was on the individual gardens (30+) rather than a main stage. Performances, food, ethnic culture and fun were available in almost all of the Gardens.
Highlights include the Parade of Flags, where people in costumes of their heritage carry the flags, and the Naturalization ceremony. This year an effort was made to include communities that do not (yet) have a Cultural Garden and they were warmly welcomed.
Lithuanian Cultural Garden in the Parade of Flags at 2018 One World Day
Asian Lantern Festival preview - Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Putting the head on a 200 foot dragon
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is transforming into an all-new summer experience beginning Thursday, July 19th during the first-of-its-kind Asian Lantern Festival, presented by Cleveland Clinic Children's. Each Thursday through Sunday for five weeks, hundreds of large-scale, colorful lanterns will illuminate the Zoo and offer an amazing and unique look in an exclusive, after-hours setting.
In this preview of the Festival you will see a lot of colorful photos and videos of the lanterns. You will also see the crew putting the head on a 200' dragon in Waterfowl Lake.
Yayoi Kusama Infinity Mirrors exhibit at the Cleveland Museum of Art
The Cleveland Museum of Art has done it again. Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrors is an amazing world-class exhibit that is nothing like you have ever seen, or experienced, before.
Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrors celebrates the legendary Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama’s 65-year career. The exhibition spans the range of Kusama’s work, from her groundbreaking paintings and performances of the 1960s, when she staged polka-dot “Happenings” in the streets of New York, to her widely admired immersive installations and the U.S. debut of her recent series of paintings, My Eternal Soul.
Visitors have the unprecedented opportunity to experience seven of Kusama’s captivating Infinity Mirror Rooms, including Where the Lights in My Heart Go (2016), exclusive to Cleveland. Additionally, a stunning array of large and vibrant paintings, sculptures, installations, works on paper and rare archival materials can also be seen.
Diplomacy Begins Here: Women Who Rock the World Summit June 28, 2018
Global Ties U.S. and its members, in partnership with the U.S. Department of State, are hosting a series of Diplomacy Begins Here Summits across the United States to bring together local, national, and international leaders from the business, government, and nonprofit world. The Cleveland Council on World Affairs (CCWA) celebrated women in leadership in Northeast Ohio through the Diplomacy Begins Here: Women Who Rock the World Summit on Thursday, June 28, at the Drury Plaza Downtown.
In partnership with Global Ties U.S. and the U.S. Department of State, CCWA welcomed local leaders in civil society, government, and business, along with leaders in international exchange programming throughout the country, to highlight our region's public diplomacy initiatives and specifically how women have played a key role as Citizen Diplomats.
Women in STEM panelists Dr. Marla Perez-Davis, Feowyn MacKinnon and Dr. Evalyn Gates
Senator Rob Portman and American Nationalities Movement at Lithuanian Community Center in Cleveland
US Senator Rob Portman joined the American Nationalities Movement of Ohio at the Lithuanian Community Center in Cleveland to discuss a variety of foreign policy topics, including how he, as co-founder and co-chair of the Senate Ukraine Caucus, will continue to work to bring attention to Russia’s actions and provide support for our Eastern European allies.
US Senator Rob Portman with nationality leaders at Lithuanian Center in Cleveland
Rotary Club of Cleveland 2018 International Fellowship Day
The Rotary Club of Cleveland hosted their annual International Fellowship Day in Cleveland Ohio on March 15, 2018. The event featured the presentation of the International Service Award to Ingrida Bublys, Honorary Consul General Republic of Lithuania.
Congratulations Ingrida Bublys
Valarie J. McCall, the Chief of Government & International Affairs of the City of Cleveland, gave the keynote address.
The mission of the International Community Council - Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) is to "Celebrate Cleveland’s multicultural communities through collaboration and cooperation on initiatives that promote the prosperity of the region and its diverse people". One of the most popular of ICC-WIN's activities is the annual Multicultural Holiday Party. The 2017 event, held at the Global Center for Health Innovation, was the 8th annual party. Hundreds of people from dozens of diverse backgrounds gathered to sample international foods, watch performances, view an international fashion show and meet and socialize with others.
A highlight of the 8th Annual ICC-WIN Cleveland Multicultural Holiday Celebration on Wednesday, December 6, 2017 at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland was the International Fashion Show featuring almost 100 models from about 30 countries.
Nader Soliman and Hadia Tawadros representing Egypt
There are 2 pages of photos and videos from the Fashion Show.
Tracing Your Family's Path from a Displaced Persons Camp
The U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C., has created a searchable database of information on the Displaced Persons Camps and the people who passed through them. Earlier this year, the Holocaust Museum partnered with the Ukrainian Museum-Archives in Cleveland to digitize the UMA's extensive collection of DP Camp periodicals produced by Ukrainian refugees from 1945-51. Working with Kyiv-based Archival Data Systems, researchers have scanned more than 75,000 documents archived at the Tremont museum, creating a resource that scholars and others will now be able to access.
Officials from the Holocaust Museum unveiled the new resource and its search tools at a special presentation in Cleveland, a city that resettled thousands of displaced persons. "Solving the Mystery: Tracing Your Family's Path from a Displaced Persons Camp," was presented at the Slovenian National Home.
International Cleveland Community Day at the Cleveland Museum of Art
Since the opening of the Atrium at the Cleveland Museum of Art, the CMA has hosted International Cleveland Community Day. It's a free festival featuring more than 50 groups and organizations that present their rich diversity through music, dance, and cultural displays.
Bharata Natyam Classical Indian dance at the Art Museum
Northeast Ohio's international students, an economic force waiting to be tapped, were invited to a first-of-its-kind event on Saturday, September 9, 2017 at the Global Center for Health Innovation in downtown Cleveland. Over 400 young adults from around the world attended InterCLE 2017, where civic and business leaders, for the first time, formally welcomed them to the region.
The event featured music, food, cultural demonstrations, networking with employers and an after-party in the Flats.
The annual Glenville Parade took place on Saturday August 12, 2017 to kick off the Glenville Community Festival. The annual Glenville Parade and Festival is led by Cleveland Councilman Jeff Johnson.
Cleveland Foundation Common Ground
hosted by CCWA in the Syrian Cultural Garden July 20, 2017
The Cleveland Foundation coordinated Common Ground on Sunday, July 30, 2017. That day, our community came together during mealtime conversations- breakfast, lunch, dinner and in-between. It was a region-wide initiative to explore our community's power to communicate and connect in order to build a stronger, safer and more dynamic home.
ClevelandPeople.com attended the event in the Syrian Cultural Garden hosted by the Cleveland Council on World Affairs (CCWA) which had an international focus.
Maura O'Donnell-McCarthy, CCWA CEO and Wael Khoury,M.D., CCWA Board Chair at the Common Ground event
Global Cleveland Global Employer Summit 2017
May 31, 2017
The Global Employer Summit was presented by Global Cleveland to help realize the Untapped Potential of Global Talent in Northeast Ohio. This first-of-its-kind conference showed employers how to take advantage of the global talent being educated, resettled or immigrating to Cleveland to fill workforce needs and become a driver of economic growth.
Dr. Nizar Zein, Baiju Shah, Michele Connell, Peter Clarke and Jack Schron
on a panel at the Summit
ICC-WIN 10th Annual Summit on the state of the International Community in Cleveland
May 3, 2017
The International Community Council / Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) hosted the 10th annual Summit on the state of the International Community in Cleveland at the Ariel Center. It was a forum for leaders or organizations serving international constituents to identify key issues for the international community and establish priorities for action from 2017 to 2010.
ICC-WIN Summit Group Photo
University Circle Incorporated President Chris Ronayne gave a keynote speech and attendees worked on 3 key questions.
Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation Board Installation
April 4, 2017
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation held their annual officer installation at the Latvian Church Hall in Lakewood on April 4, 2017. Outgoing Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation President Sheila Murphy Crawford looked back at the last 5 years and introduced the new president Wael Khoury MD.
Cleveland ethnic leaders meet with Mayor Frank Jackson and others
Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson, City Council president Kevin Kelley, Global Cleveland President Joe Cimperman and Cleveland Police Chief Calvin Williams met with about 120 leaders of Cleveland's ethnic communities. The purpose was to have a dialog, answer their concerns and have a conversation about Cleveland’s local response to international relations in our community.
Cleveland Police Chief Calvin Williams, Joe Cimperman, Mayor Frank Jackson and Council president Kevin Kelley
The mission of the International Community Council - Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) is to "Celebrate Cleveland’s multicultural communities through collaboration and cooperation on initiatives that promote the prosperity of the region and its diverse people".
One of the most popular of ICC-WIN's activities is the annual Multicultural Holiday Party. The 2016 event, held at the Global Center for Health Innovation, was the 7th annual party. Hundreds of people from dozens of diverse backgrounds gathered to sample international foods, watch performances, view an international fashion show and meet and socialize with others.
International Fashion Show at 7th annual ICC-WIN Celebration
The International Fashion Show was chaired by Nada Martinovic and featured over 100 representatives from more than 20 countries. A new feature this year was that each group walked the runway to the sounds of music of their country or region.
Time Capsule buried in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens November 20, 2016
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation ended their Centennial Year by burying a time capsule at the Kiosk of the Gardens on MLK Blvd. The time capsule has information and artifacts about the Gardens and also Cleveland in 2016. (Go Cavs, Go Tribe) It will be opened in 25 years in 2041.
Over 24,000 people visited the Cleveland Cultural Gardens on August 28, 2016 on the 71st annual One World Day. Since 1945 the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation (CCGF) has celebrated One World Day exemplifying the theme of the Gardens: "Peace through Mutual Understanding."
Highlights included the Parade of Flags, Naturalization Ceremony, Passport to Peace activities, ethnic food and performances, Michael Stanley concert and more.
During the One World Day ceremony, dignitaries broke ground on the new Centennial Plaza which kicks off the Cultural Gardens' second 100 years.
One World Day promo - Kickin' it with Kenny August 24, 2016
Fox 8's Kenny Crumpton and the Kickin' it with Kenny crew visited the Italian Cultural Garden in advance of the 71st annual One World Day in the Gardens on August 28, 2016.
Segments feature Gardens president Sheila Crawford and Councilman Kevin Conwell, the Manivics Hawaiian Dance Company, St Sava Serbian Children's Choir, Hofbrau Haus and the Vietnamese Cultural Garden team with a xichlo (pedicab).
Cleveland's Asian Immigrant Communities August 10, 2016
On Wednesday, August 10, 2016, Global Cleveland hosted a panel discussion at the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage titled: Begin the Conversation: Cleveland's Immigrant Communities Today: Pan-Asian Community.
Four members of the Cleveland Asian community spoke and answered questions from moderator Jeffery Allen: Gia Hoa Ryan who came to the US from her native Vietnam in 1971, Asim Datta who came from India, Johnny Wu who has lived in Panama, Taiwan and other places and represented the Chinese community and Nupur Goel who is in the 11th Grade at Gilmour Academy. Her parents emigrated from India 20+ years ago.
Jeffery Allen, Asim Datta, Nupur Goel, Johnny Wu and Gia Hoa Ryan
Kid's Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens August 7, 2016
A special day for children was held in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens on August 7, 2016. The day was extra special because it was part of the Centennial celebration of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. The first Garden was established in 1916 so 2016 is the Centennial anniversary.
4 Gardens were featured: Estonian, Finnish, Indian and Lebanese and in each Garden there were activities and fun for kids (and their parents).
Immigrant Contributions to Ohio - Global Cleveland Press Conference August 3, 2016
On Wednesday, August 3, 2016, Global Cleveland hosted a press conference to present new Ohio-specific data on the economic contributions of immigrants in Ohio. The conference was held on the steps of Cleveland City Hall and drew on data from a just completed research report compiled by the Partnership for a New American Economy (PNAE).
American Nationalities Movement - Captive Nations July 14, 2016
The American Nationalities Movement held the annual Captive Nations Dinner in Cleveland on July 14, 2016. Erika Puussaar of the Estonian Community and delegate to the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation and Joe Wendel of the German Community and host of the German radio show on WCPN 90.3 were honored with the Freedom Award.
American Nationalities Movement President Ralph Perk Jr. and Past-President Irene Morrow
'Different' people moving to town - Joe Cimperman of Global Cleveland
Joe Meissner asked Joe Cimperman, former Cleveland councilman and now president of Global Cleveland, how to reach the people in the suburbs concerning new and "different" people moving in. This was at the ASIA Inc. Friendraiser event at the Ariel International Center. Joe gave some personal stories as an answer and told people to bet on people who are broken, who have an accent and so on. He also praised Dan Hanson and ClevelandPeople.Com and the Cleveland International Hall of Fame for their efforts to make this happen. Sorry about the lighting.
Joe was asked about senior citizens at the ASIA Inc. Friendraiser event at the Ariel International Center. Joe said we shouldn't always segment people - "It's all of us or none of us." Sorry about the lighting.
Cleveland Cultural Gardens Flagpole Dedication Cultural Gardens Centennial Plaza
June 12, 2016
The Holden Parks Trust donated a flag and flagpole to the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation (CCGF) and a dedication ceremony was held on Sunday June 12.
Chris Ronayne and Sheila Murphy Crawford cut the ribbon
Viking Veterans Memorial VASJ High School May 29, 2016
The Viking Veteran Memorial is a monument located on the campus of Villa Angela - St. Joseph (VASJ) High School in Cleveland. It was dedicated Memorial Day weekend 2016.
Six St. Joseph High School students were killed in Vietnam. The Viking Veteran Memorial was created to honor them.
Dedicated to all Vikings who served their Country,
to those who carry the physical and emotional wounds of war,
and to these who made the ultimate sacrifice.
We will always remember.
Alan Freed Memorial Lake View Cemetery May 7, 2016
Alan Freed was a Cleveland disc jockey who has been called the "Father of Rock and Roll." He coined and popularized the term "rock and roll" and produced the nation's first rock concert, the Moondog Coronation Ball at the Cleveland Arena, in 1952. This was an important part of the decision to have the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum built in Cleveland, Ohio.
A memorial was held and an unveiling of a monument at Lake View Cemetery in Cleveland on May 7, 2016. and hundreds of fans and music industry people attended.
Little Steven Van Zandt and Norm N. Nite with newly unveiled Alan Freed monument
CWRU Center for International Affairs
International Achievement Dinner
The Case Western Reserve University: International Achievement Dinner honors contributors to international education at Case Western Reserve University. The April 2016 event featured Ambassador Richard L. Armitage, former deputy secretary of state (2001-2005) and president of Armitage International as the keynote speaker.
Vice Provost David Fleshler, President Barbara Snyder and Ambassador Richard L. Armitage
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation (CCGF) hosted a gala event at the Intercontinental Hotel to celebrate the Centennial of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. The first Garden (Shakespeare Garden which became the British Garden) was established in April 1916 so 100 years are being celebrated all year. There are special events planned in the Gardens, the creation of a Centennial Plaza and One World Day on August 28, 2016.
Keynote Speaker Chris Ronayne, CCGF President Sheila Crawford
and MC Dick Russ at the Cultural Gardens 100th Gala
The Rotary Club of Cleveland hosted their annual International Fellowship Day in Cleveland Ohio on April 7, 2016. The event featured the presentation of the International Service Award to Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson.
Don't miss the comprehensive and eloquent responses that Mayor Jackson gave during the Q&A portion of the event.
Beverly Ghent-Skrzynski, Mayor Frank Jackson, Richard S. Pollak and Ingrida Bublys
The 6th annual Holiday Celebration of Cleveland's Diversity was held in the atrium of the Global Center for Health Innovation in the Cleveland Convention Center on December 16, 2015. The event was put on by the International Community Council-Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) in conjunction with the office of Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson.
Ken Kovach and some ICC-WIN board members on stage
phil·an·thro·pi·a is Executive Caterers’ Annual Fundraising Luncheon at Landerhaven designed to benefit non-profits throughout Northeast Ohio. After the tragedy of 9/11, New York City absorbed such a large portion of all charitable donations that many local non-profits struggled to reach their own goals. In response, Executive Caterers rededicated their December Corporate Club luncheon to the support of local charities, especially smaller organizations without substantial resources of their own.
Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation Christmas party at Kan Zaman Middle Eastern restaurant
The Lebanese Cultural Garden was the host for the annual Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation Christmas party. It took place at Kan Zaman Middle Eastern restaurant in Cleveland and featured the Ajyal Lebanese dance group performing traditional Lebanese dabke (stomping) dances.
A highlight of the 6th annual Multicultural Holiday celebration put on by the International Community Council - Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) at the Global Center for Health Innovation in Cleveland is the international fashion show.
In this grand finale, all the participants gathered on stage and walked off to a version of the John Lennon song Imagine. Dr. Nada Martinovic was the director of the Fashion Show.
Cleveland Museum of Art's International Cleveland Community Day
The Cleveland Museum of Art hosted its annual International Cleveland Community Day in the Ames Family Atrium on Sunday October 4, 2015.
This annual festival is a celebration of the rich diversity of Greater Cleveland. Dynamic presentations from more than 50 community groups expressed the continued vitality of the global cultures and arts that enliven our city.
Cleveland's Refugee Strategy Workshop Open Doors to a Welcoming City
The Refugee Services Collaborative of Greater Cleveland and Councilman Joe Cimperman hosted a workshop to discuss a citywide strategy to make Cleveland the most welcoming city for refugees to thrive and contribute.
Cimperman cited 3 goals of the Summit: Building relationships among city leaders and those working in relevant refugee services fields, Educating each other about the issues and Creating a blueprint to make Cleveland the number one city in the county for refugees in five years.
Cleveland Cultural Gardens to celebrate 70th annual One World Day Press release - August 6, 2015
Since 1945 the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation (CCGF) has celebrated One World Day exemplifying the theme of the Gardens: "Peace through Mutual Understanding."
August 23, 2015 will be the 70th annual One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens and it will be special as it will also be the official kickoff, with the City of Cleveland, of the Centennial Year of the Gardens. The first Garden was established in 1916 so the CCGF, City of Cleveland and the community will have a year-long celebration of this local treasure.
The Continental Cup is now in its 10th year and the 2015 event had 3300 athletes from 11 countries including Tanzania, Kenya, Mongolia, China, Bermuda, Colombia, Canada, Brazil, Greece and Nepal. The Continental Cup International Youth Sports Festival is the premier internationally-driven youth sports event in the United States and features competitions in three sports (soccer, basketball, baseball).
Diversity Center of Cleveland Walk Rock and Run 2015
Walk, Rock & Run unifies communities across Northeast Ohio while raising awareness of diversity issues. Since 2002, The Diversity Center has partnered with The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum to host Walk, Rock & Run which celebrates diversity.
Slavic Village, a historical neighborhood located outside of downtown Cleveland, was devastated by the national housing crisis and continues to struggle in the aftermath of economic decline. A once vibrant neighborhood rich in history and culture has been plagued by blight, vacant homes and financial hardships. But it's on its way back.
Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation Installation
The Russian Cultural Garden, led by delegates Svetlana Stolyarova and Boris Vinogardsky MD, hosted the annual installation dinner of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation.
This was a special event as the Federation celebrated 99 years.
Vodka toast to 99 years
Svetlana Stolyarova, Mehmet Gencer,
Sheila Murphy Crawford and Pierre Bejjani
Margaret W. Wong immigration seminar Answers to immigration questions February 28, 2015
Margaret W. Wong is a world-renown immigration attorney as well as an author, advocate and speaker. She hosted an immigration seminar in her Cleveland office and spoke about the existing changes to immigration law since President Obama's Executive Action of November 20, 2014 and the expected immigration reforms in the future.
Rotary Club of Cleveland 2015 International Fellowship Day February 5, 2015
The Rotary Club of Cleveland hosted their annual International Fellowship Day in Cleveland Ohio on February 5, 2015. The event featured the presentation of the International Service Award to Dr. Delos “Toby” M. Cosgrove, Chief Executive Officer and President, Cleveland Clinic.
Dr. Toby Cosgrove receives award from Paul Qua and Ingrida Bublys
The 5th annual Holiday Celebration of Cleveland's Diversity was held in the atrium of the Global Center for Health Innovation in the Cleveland Convention Center on December 17, 2014. The event was put on by the International Community Council-Worldwide Intercultural Network (ICC-WIN) in conjunction with the office of Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson.
84 different countries were represented - a true testament to Cleveland's diversity.
ICC-WIN Board Members Pierre Bejjani, Laura Fruscella, Mehmet Gencer, Dan Hanson, Ken Kovach, Lisa Wong and Mari Galindo with Kathy and Anjan Ghose
One highlight of the International Community Council - Worldwide Intercultural Network's (ICC-WIN) 5th annual multicultural holiday celebration at the Global Center for Health Innovation in the Cleveland Convention Center in Cleveland Ohio was the International Fashion Show. Dozens of countries were represented.
American Nationalities Movement of Ohio Christmas Event December 13, 2014
the American Nationalities Movement of Ohio's 52nd Annual Christmas Party Luncheon honored Judges Stuart Friedman, Robert McClelland and Deborah Nicastro with the Freedom Award.
Ralph Perk Jr., Stuart Friedman, Alex Machaskee, Irene Morrow, Deborah Nicastro and Robert McClelland
Unaccompanied Children Coalition Saigon Plaza November 18, 2014
When news of the unaccompanied children crossing the US-Mexico border was released, concerned citizens in Cleveland started meeting regularly to see how they could help. They formed the Children's Coalition and their regular meetings led to a community information night. Over 100 people attended the information session at Saigon Plaza at West 54th and Detroit to learn and speak about the Unaccompanied Children and Mothers.
1st Annual Refugee Summit in Cleveland
Cleveland City Hall Rotunda October 30, 2014
The first Refugee Summit in Cleveland was held Thursday October 30, 2014 in the Rotunda of City Hall. The Summit was hosted by City of Cleveland Health and Human Services Committee, Councilman Joe Cimperman (Ward 3) and in partnership with the Refugee Services Collaborative of Greater Cleveland.
The theme of the Summit was: Get the facts. Fight misconceptions. Explore next steps.
Louise Mugongo told her story of being a refugee from Congo
4th Annual Ashtabula Multi-Cultural Festival
Downtown Ashtabula Ohio July 26, 2014
The 4th Annual Downtown Ashtabula Multi-Cultural Festival was held on July 26, 2014. The Festival included a parade down Main Avenue and multicultural performers and stands.
Highlights included Native Americans from the Lenape Nations who marched in the parade and also blessed the festival with dance and drums and the Geauga Highlanders Pipes & Drums who also marched and performed.
American Nationalities Movement of Ohio
53rd annual Captive Nations Dinner July 17, 2014
The 53rd annual Captive Nations Dinner of the American Nationalities Movement was held in Wal-Tam's Grand Ballroom in Garfield Heights on July 17, 2014. Over 250 people attended the event to see the Freedom Awards be presented and a keynote address by US Senator Rob Portman. Many in the audience have roots in countries that have been or are under increased tensions from Russia and other powers.
There were three recipients of the Freedom Award: Katalin Gulden, Francis Rutkowski and Senator Rob Portman.
Judge Perk, Senator Rob Portman, Katalin Gulden, Irene Morrow, Francis Rutkowski and Councilman Mike Polensek
Musical Journey along the Silk Road Cleveland Museum of Natural History June 29, 2014
Celebration of the Traveling the Silk Road Exhibition at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History continued on Sunday, June 29th with a fabulous concert featuring music from the countries of the Silk Road.
Prior to the concert visitors were treated to Indian Kathak dancers and a Chinese Dragon Dance by the Organization of Chinese Americans of Greater Cleveland's Dance Club.
Leading world music and jazz percussionist Jamey Haddad led a group of world class musicians who performed music from around the world and shared insights about their unique instruments.
The musicians have recently performed with the likes of Sting, Simon and Garfunkel and Yo-Yo Ma. They represented their native lands of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Morocco, China and India.
Traveling the Silk Road exhibition Cleveland Museum of Natural History May 31- October 5, 2014
Imagine a world in which the latest ideas traveled not by wireless networks but by camel.
Centuries ago, merchants, missionaries and other travelers made their way across Asia, along the enormous trade network known as the Silk Road. Over rugged mountains and forbidding deserts, camel caravans loaded with precious cargo made possible the exchange of valuable goods, ideas and innovations. Named for the fabric that enticed traders from all over the world, the Silk Road spanned the far reaches of China to the center of the Islamic world from A.D. 600 to 1200.
The exhibition, free with Cleveland Museum of Natural History admission, opened in New York and then went to Asia, Rome, Los Angeles and now Cleveland. Cleveland is the first city in the area to host this fascinating exhibit.
An Opening Celebration was held at the Museum on May 30 and about 450 people enjoyed the Exhibit, presentations and several performances including a Dragon Dance.
Cleveland Cultural Garden Federation Officer Induction
Ariel International Center April 8, 2014
The 2014 Cleveland Cultural Garden Federation officer induction ceremony was held at the Ariel International Center in Cleveland. Ariel is now the business home of the Federation.
Dialog between Asian Community Leaders and Cleveland Mayor Jackson
Margaret W. Wong Offices April 3, 2014
A number of Asian community leaders were invited to meet and speak with Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson at the office of Margaret W. Wong. The meeting was billed as "an opportunity for Community Leaders to speak directly with Mayor Jackson about their concerns as well as strategies to make Cleveland a more welcoming and open city for the Asian and businesses communities."
Anthony Yen, Margaret Wong, Haigang Zhou and George Hwang
The Cleveland Museum of Art created the International Cleveland Communities Advancement Task Force to work with leaders in Cleveland's international communities about the international exhibitions and programs that bring masterpieces of art and music to Cleveland.
The most recent meeting featured CMA Curators who provided insightful introductions to the new Asian galleries, current exhibitions and new acquisitions that make the museum internationally relevant and regionally significant.
Anila Nicklos, Pierre Bejjani, Gia Hoa Ryan, Asim Datta, Dan Hanson, Curator Sinead Vilbar, John and Helen Collis. Marjorie Williams, Anthony Yen, Keiko Nakano, Joe Meissner, Maria Pujana, Nadia Martinovics and Hugo Urizar. (Photo by Debbie Hanson)
Rotary Club of Cleveland 2014 International Fellowship Day
February 20, 2014
The Rotary Club of Cleveland hosted their annual International Fellowship Day in Cleveland Ohio on February 20, 2014. The event featured the presentation of the International Service Award to immigration attorney and author Margaret W. Wong.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame CEO Greg Harris and Cleveland Consular Corps
Greg Harris, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland Ohio, welcomed the Cleveland Consular Corps (leaders representing various countries) and Dan Hanson and Debbie Hanson of ClevelandPeople.Com to a special event co-hosted with Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson.
Harris said that the Rock Hall is now in its 18th year and averages 500,000 visits each year with over 90% from outside Northeast Ohio and from all 50 states and 130 countries each year. The economic impact is over $100 million each year and now tops $2 billion all on an initial investment of only $90 million.
At the 4th annual party, a diverse crowd sampled ethnic food and drinks, watched multicultural performances, listened and danced to world music and mixed and mingled with the attendees who represented dozens of different cultural backgrounds.
WIN Board - Byron Dillard (podium), Radhika Reddy, Ken Kovach, Gia Hoa Ryan, Dan Hanson, Nada Martinovic, Pierre Bejjani, Mari Galinda DaSilva Murat Gurer, Asim Datta and Lisa Wong (not in photo Richard Eastburn, Joe Meissner, Laura Fruscella, Harry Weller)
The Champion of Immigrants Award was created in honor of Frances Payne Bolton, former member of the U.S. Congress, and Kenyon Bolton, past Board President of the Nationalities Services Center (now the International Services Center), acknowledged leaders and trailblazers in their own championship of immigrants.
As its first recipient of this annual award, the ISC selected Dennis J. Kucinich, former U.S. Congressman and Mayor of Cleveland, because of his ongoing dedication and service to immigrants both locally and on a national level
Project Love hosts an annual event, founded by Sam Miller of Forest City Enterprises, that honors local community members for their contribution to their community, for principled leadership, and for setting an inspiring example for others to follow.
The 2013 Sam Miller Goodness Award was presented to Governor John Kasich, Sister Judith Ann Karam,CSA and Jane & Lee Seidman.
Lee Seidman, Sam Miller, Sister Judith Ann Karam, CSA and Jane Seidman
For years, Cultural Garden Federation leaders have wanted to create something to assist visitors in knowing that they are in the Gardens and how to get around.
This vision became a reality thanks to the leadership of Federation past-president Paul Burik and a team of volunteers and helpers.
On Sunday August 18, 2013 a ribbon was cut at the new Cultural Gardens Kiosk dedication ceremony. The Kiosk is located on the East side of MLK Blvd and is near the German Garden.
Global Cleveland and Community Partners helped launch the Welcoming America Initiative in Cleveland on Tuesday July 16.
Attendees viewd a documentary about immigrant integration in America's heartland called "Welcome to Shelbyville" that takes an intimate look at a southern Tennessee town as its residents - whites and African Americans, recently arrived Somalis and Latinos who came a decade earlier - grapple with their beliefs, their histories, and their evolving ways of life.
This was followed by a panel discussion and Q&A.
David Lubell, Founding Executive Director of Welcoming America
The 4th annual Cleveland Asian Festival attracted 38,380 attendees over the weekend of May 18-19, 2013. They spent over $2 million in the AsiaTown neighborhood. There were dozens of performances from local, regional, and national performing groups including headliner Cheesa from NBC's The Voice.
People enjoyed Asian cuisine from over 20 different restaurants and shopping in the World Market which was filled with merchants of Asian themed products while sponsors had informational displays at their tent.
International Partners in Mission celebrated its 11th annual Namaste! One Night for One World event on Friday, April 26, 2014.
One Night for One World invites guests to immerse themselves in the various cultural identities of global communities through live music, dance, authentic food and beverages, decorations and education.
One highlight was the Indian Bhangra dance from Punjab performed by young siblings.
Gill family dancers - Simi, Jasleen and little brother
Cuyahoga Community College West and the Parma City School District presented the annual Culture Shock on April 18, 2013. Susan W. Lohwater, Ph.D. Assistant Professor, English as a Second Language and ESL Coordinator, Advisor to International Club & Conversation Connection worked with the Parma City Schools to make it happen. The event included tables representing various nationalities and cultures as well as multi-cultural performances.
Award Winning Filmmaker Johnny Wu was the keynote speaker. Wu's presentation was titled "Being Different.”
Global Cleveland hosted a roundtable discussion on immigration reform with Senator Sherrod Brown on Monday April 15, 2013. Leaders from various communities gave their thoughts 'from the front-line' and the Senator listened carefully, asked questions and took notes.
Global Cleveland's Joy Roller, Senator Sherrod Brown and Albert Ratner
The offices of immigration attorneys Margaret W. Wong & Associates has a new location in Parma, Ohio. Malak Jadallah is Director of Community and International Affairs for Ms. Wong and will run the Parma office. Malak is Palestinian-American and very familiar with the Middle Eastern community in Cleveland and formerly worked for Congressman Dennis Kucinich.
The grand opening took place on April 12th and featured Parma Mayor Tim DeGeeter as well as an update on immigration reform from Margaret Wong.
Margaret Wong, Mayor Tim DeGeeter, Malak Jadallah, Judy Wong and Paul Isherwood
Rotary Club of Cleveland 2013 International Fellowship Day April 11, 2013
The Rotary Club of Cleveland hosted their annual International Fellowship Day in Cleveland Ohio on April 11, 2013. The event featured the presentation of the International Service Award to Dan Hanson, Debbie Hanson and Pat Hanson of ClevelandPeople.Com.
Cleveland Mayor Frank G. Jackson with Debbie, Pat and Dan Hanson
Currently there are considerable discussions at the federal level about immigration reform. One of the key areas of debate is family immigration (sponsorship of relatives to immigrate to the United States) and the specifics on who is and who is not included as part of the provisions that are being discussed.
Michael Byun, Executive Director of Asian Services in Action, led a timely and critical panel discussion at the Philippine Cultural Center in Parma with representatives from the different Asian communities who are impacted.
Bessie Schiroky, Jayashree Bidari, Gia Hoa Ryan and Michael Byun
Why do today's immigrants come to the US?
Carl Ruby, PhD. is currently serving as a consultant for the National Immigration Forum. His responsibilities include networking with evangelical leaders, developing strategies to influence members of congress, and building networks of leaders in the faith community, law enforcement, and business on behalf of immigration reform. Previously he spent 27 years in higher education, serving as a recruiter, a therapist, an instructor, a seminar speaker, a development officer, and finally as a senior executive.
Dr. Ruby spoke about immigration reform at the Captive Nations Week annual commemoration dinner of the American nationalities Movement, Inc. His first of 4 questions to answer was 'Why do today's immigrants come to the US?' He said the main reason they come here is to work - to get higher wages (the Place Premium), be more productive and live the American Dream.
At a reception on February 27, 2013 The Cleveland Museum of Art introduced Sonya Rhie Quintanilla as Curator of Indian and Southeast Asian Art. Dr. Quintanilla gave previews of the collection, including the Ganesh and Tantra in Buddhist Art, that will be featured starting in May.
CMA Director David Franklin, Director, Education and Public Programs Marjorie Williams and Curator Sonya Rhie Quintanilla
Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Jose Antonio Vargas, author of "My Life as an Undocumented Immigrant, " was in Cleveland for the Town Hall Speaker Series in the Ohio Theatre at Playhouse Square. Vargas is the founder of Define American, a non-profit organization that seeks to elevate the conversation around immigration, He is himself an undocumented immigrant to the United States.
Before the speech, Vargas attended a reception at the offices of immigration attorney Margaret W. Wong and answered questions from the audience.
Immigration attorney, author and immigration reform advocate Richard Herman invited a couple hundred like-minded people to a Multicultural Happy Hour at the new Tomo Sushi and Hibachi restaurant on West 9th Street. The theme of the event was Building a Multicultural Alliance for Immigration Reform and The Immigrant-Friendly City.
Church Women United in Greater Cleveland is a group of women who gather together to promote the positive similarities of our faiths and accentuate the underlying oneness of the various religious groups and affiliations. The group has held a Interfaith Fellowship Day as far back as 1955 when Church Women United joined with the Women's Division of Jewish Community Federation. This year's theme was "The Myths And Mysteries In Our Religions" and featured speakers from the following faiths: Catholic, Jewish, Lutheran, Muslim and Sikh.
Father Damian Ference, Ratanjit Sondhe and Imam Musa Sugapong
Gallery One at the Cleveland Museum of Art is a unique, interactive gallery that blends art, technology and interpretation to inspire visitors to explore the museum’s renowned collections.
Collection Wall at Gallery One at Cleveland Museum of Art
This revolutionary space features the largest multi-touch screen in the United States, which displays images of over 3,500 objects from the museum’s world-renowned permanent collection. This 40-foot Collection Wall allows visitors to shape their own tours of the museum and to discover the full breadth of the collections on view throughout the museum’s galleries.
The interactive displays, the fun exhibits and the incredible Collection Wall make this world-class Gallery a must see.
2012
American Nationalities Movement Annual Christmas Party The American Nationalities Movement held their Annual Christmas Party and Program on December 15th at the beautifully renovated Bohemian National Hall Ballroom at 4939 Broadway in Cleveland.
Philanthropia 2012 Philanthropia, phil·an·thro·pi·a, is Executive Caterers’ Annual Fundraising Luncheon at Landerhaven designed to benefit non-profits throughout Northeast Ohio.
Leon Bibb and Harlan Diamond announce the Philanthropia 2012 total
The Diversity Center Humanitarian Award Dinner Since 1949, The Diversity Center has honored men and women of outstanding dedication and community service in our region at the annual Humanitarian Award Dinner. The 2012 honorees were Sr. Judith Ann Karam, CSA, President & CEO, Sisters of Charity Health System and Charles D. Fowler, CEO, Fairmount Minerals and William Conway, Founder & Chairman Emeritus, Fairmount Minerals.
The eyes of the world were focused on Cleveland on Election Day 2012 to see how the closest Presidential race in modern history played out.
The Council on World Affairs, along with its Cleveland affiliate, hosted a group of journalists put together by the East-West Center of Hawaii to cover the election. They had a particular interest in the Asian vote.
International Journalists and Cleveland guests on Election Day 2012
Asian Americans are the fastest growing ethnic group in Cleveland with a 42% growth rate from 2000 to 2010. Such growth offers opportunities and challenges so ASIA Inc. convened a meeting to discuss the Report.
Michael Byun, Marita Etcubanez, Michael Fleming, Johnny Wu, Radhika Reddy, Tom Mrosko, Eunice Parks and Vi Huynh
The many different cultural performances were a highlight of the grand opening of the Ames Family Atrium in the Cleveland Museum of Art on Sunday October 28, 2012. See photos and videos of the diverse performers and crowd.
A highlight of the 2012 Ohio's Celtic and International Fest was the ClevelandPeople.Com International Pavilion. The ClevelandPeople.Com International Pavilion featured almost 20 different groups performing their culture's traditions in colorful native costumes. Enjoy the photos and videos from the colorful and diverse performances.
Kyklonas Hellenic Dancers from St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church
65th Annual One World Day The 65th Annual One World Day celebration took place on Sunday, August 26, 2012. This annual event reflects the theme of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens: “Peace through Mutual Understanding."
The day began with entertainment and then the depositing of soil from Croatia and Albania (the 2 newest Gardens) in the Urn of Nations at the American Legion Garden.
This was followed by the Parade of Flags, Main Ceremony, Naturalization Ceremony and Entertainment.
Ukrainian and Slovak Cultural Garden marchers
Annual Asian Mass in Cleveland The Mass attracted Catholics from various Asian communities including Vietnamese, Chinese, Indian, Korean, Filipino, Indonesian, Sri Lankan and Bangladeshi.
Indian-American serial entrepreneur Naren Bakshi spoke at a special meeting at the Ariel International Center in Cleveland on August 3,2012 that included members of TiE Ohio and other area business leaders and entrepreneurs.
TiE Ohio Charter Members Harry Weller, Ratanjit Sondhe, Pradip Kamat, Naren Bakshi, Richard Herman, Radhika Reddy, Richard Eastburn and Raj Aggarwal
Speakers included George Kikano, MD, Department Chairman, Family Medicine, UH Case Medical Center, Li Li, MD, PhD Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, CWRU and fellowship graduate student in biomedical research Yan Yan.
Dr. Li Li, Margaret Wong, Dr. George Kikano and David Fleshler
Cleveland is one of only twenty cities in the nation (and the only in Ohio) to award the Princeton Prize in Race Relations. This year's winner was 14 year old Demi Zhang, an Orange High School ninth grader.
The 3rd annual Cleveland Asian Festival attracted more than 42,240 people over the weekend of May 19-20, 2012. There were over 40 performances from local, regional, and national performing groups including this year’s headliner, MTV’s America’s Best Dance Crew: Instant Noodles. Asian cuisine from over 20 different restaurants kept the attendees satisfied. The World Market was filled with merchants of Asian themed products while sponsors had informational displays at their tent.
A high-five for Wushu the Dragon at Cleveland Asian Festival
A diverse group of Asian Americans (Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Indian and others) gathered in the Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Day. In addition to the speeches, entertainment and food, Mayor Jackson gave a proclamation of appreciation to Le Nguyen, Asian Liaison, City of Cleveland Community Relations Board.
Lt. Colonel Joe Meissner, Mona Alag, Margaret Wong, Mayor Jackson, Blaine Griffin, Le Nguyen, Lisa Wong and Grady Stevenson
American Nationalities Movement Awards Philomena's - December 22, 2010 Honoring Alex Machaskee, Rafael Davila and Dan, Debbie and Pat Hanson of ClevelandPeople.Com
Mural on St. Clair Ave. Have you seen the beautiful mural on the west facing wall of Sheliga Drug Store at 6125 St.Clair Avenue?
Cultural Gardens of Cleveland
The Cultural Gardens in Cleveland are one of the jewels of the city. Dozens of beautiful gardens, most with sculptures and monuments, celebrate the culture, history and people of each particular garden.
One World Day 2009 Musical Performances - Rusyn, Slovak, Russian and more
Cleveland Council on World Affairs
The Cleveland Council on World Affairs, a non-profit organization was founded in 1923 to promote world peace. The Council’s mission is to engage the community of Northeast Ohio to achieve greater understanding of international relations and global issues and their impact upon our region. Through its lectures, discussion groups and educational programs the Council has become the region’s leading world affairs forum.
Cleveland Welcome Center
A temporary home for people interested in creating a Welcome Center to attract, welcome and retain immigrants to Cleveland and Northeast Ohio. Join us on LinkedIn.
TiE Ohio
TiE is an organization founded by entrepreneurs who are dedicated to connecting and supporting emerging entrepreneurs in all business sectors. TiE Ohio is the 50th chapter of TiE, a global entrepreneurial network that started in Silicon Valley in the 1990s. TiE is now the world's largest organization for fostering entrepreneurship; its members include some of the world's most well-known entrepreneurs.
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