Welcoming Week in Somerville was recognized by official proclamation at the latest City Council meeting.

By The Times Staff

Anyone and everyone can belong in the City of Somerville. This week marks the beginning of what’s known as Welcoming Week. It’s a time to make everyone feel welcome and embrace the diversity in the community, and a way to remind residents that what unites us is greater than what divides us.

Somerville Mayor Katjana Ballantyne presented a proclamation at the latest City Council meeting on August 28 to recognize Welcoming Week, which will occur from September 12 through September 21.

“We don’t just talk about diversity, we live it,” said Mayor Ballantyne. “Our neighborhoods are home to people from across the globe, and our culture, schools, and economy are stronger because of it.”

Welcoming Week is a national celebration that reminds residents of Somerville how people from different cultures can come together to foster unity. Learning from others can open minds and build understanding, spark creativity and innovation, and promote empathy and connection.

Mayor Ballantyne and the Somerville Office of Immigrant Affairs (SOIA) will facilitate the celebration of immigrant inclusion, community connection, and cultural exchange during Welcoming Week 2025.

It is a celebration of inclusion that will include a series of events and activities designed to uplift immigrant voices, showcase community solidarity, and connect residents across cultures.

The mayor says that the week reminds residents to show courage and not give in to fear. “It’s about choosing connection over division, compassion over fear, and love over hate.”

Welcoming Week is an annual campaign led by Welcoming America that celebrates the growing movement of inclusive communities. Launched in 2012, it provides a platform for local events that build mutual understanding between immigrants and non-immigrants and deepen a sense of belonging for all.

“While we officially mark Welcoming Week this September, the spirit of this week goes well beyond a single set of days,” said Mayor Ballantyne. “In Somerville, welcoming is year-round.”