Recap: An uplifting and entertaining Oye Vecino LIVE 2021
On September 23, three incredible individuals shared their immigration stories on a live broadcast of Oye Vecino to raise more than $27,000 for Tennessee Justice for Our Neighbors — exceeding our goal of $25,000!
The panel of community members was moderated by TNJFON's staff attorney Alvaro Manrique Barrenechea, who hosts the Oye Vecino podcast.
Karla Ruiz shared what it was like to make Nashville home when she and her young son arrived in 1999. Since then, her son has gone onto pursue a graduate degree and had offers from some of the top universities in the country. She has built a successful catering business and employs members of the Nashville community.
Like Karla, Valentina Harper is an entrepreneur. She came to the U.S. in 2003 as an adult with a career and education at her disposal but only $200 in her pocket. She said she wished she had known about organizations like Tennessee Justice for Our Neighbors because it is still a blur how she paid the $4,000 fee to her first immigration attorney.
Dr. Alex Jahangir identified with Karla's son in that he was only six years old when he moved from war-torn Iran to Germany, then to Belgium, and eventually to the United States seeking safety. Alex shared how he still clearly remembers the anxiety of trips to INS in Memphis and not knowing who to trust when seeking counsel.
These panelists shared stories of culture shock, their immigration process, what traditions they have continued and which new traditions they have adopted to make a new home. Most importantly, they offered advice to new Americans.
To close out the night, Grammy award-winner Giovanni Rodriguez and friends treated attendees to a joyful live performance. Giovanni is was born in Italy to Dominican parents, and grew up in Europe before moving to the U.S.
Generous donations for this event are helping to make sure the Alexes, Valentinas, and Karlas of tomorrow are able to fulfill their potential, live safely, and have counsel they can trust and afford.