MINNEAPOLIS (Sept. 2, 2016) — The Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota’s (ILCM) annual gala will take place this year on Sept. 9, 2016, at the Intercontinental Saint Paul Riverfront Hotel.
The gala will celebrate ILCM’s 20 years of services for immigrants and refugees and recognize outstanding organizations and individuals who have shown dedication and leadership on immigration issues.
Founded in 1996 with three employees working under a leaky roof on St. Paul’s West Side, ILCM has grown to become the state’s largest nonprofit law office specializing in free immigration legal representation for low-income immigrants and refugees. It is a leading advocate on immigration for state and federal policy, as well as a resource for training and education on immigration issues. Today, through five offices across the state, 21 employees, and many legal interns, pro bono attorneys and volunteers, ILCM has provided direct legal services to 4,615 clients from more than 100 countries in the last year alone.
ILCM’s Gala will recognize and celebrate the economic, social, and cultural contributions of immigrants and refugees to our local communities
John Keller, the executive director of ILCM, said the organization works hard to create a more welcoming state, to build bridges from the world to Minnesota, and to help immigrant and refugee families navigate extremely complex laws and policies.
“Thousands of people over the last 20 years have trusted us when dreaming a new future by escaping violence, by reuniting their wife or husband and children, and by becoming naturalized U.S. citizens,” Keller said. “Through courage, hard work often in demanding jobs, persevering at school in a second language, and launching new businesses, immigrants are fulfilling the American dream all across Minnesota. While our work is far from done, this year we are grateful to celebrate 20 years together supporting the courage and hope of all who risk everything to dream and build a better life for all of us in Minnesota.”
The theme of the night is “Everyone has a story.” We will be joined by master storyteller Garrison Keillor, spoken-word artist Maria Isa, acclaimed pianist Nachito Herrera, Gamelan group Balung Getih, and the Latin rhythms of Salsa del Soul.
Special thanks to this year’s generous Champion sponsors Wilson Law Group, and Matt and Jeannie Entenza.
ILCM is a state-wide nonprofit 501(c)3 legal service provider in Minnesota. ILCM provides free comprehensive immigration services to low-income persons of all nationalities who are ineligible for federally-funded legal services programs. ILCM is also one of the few agencies in Minnesota to provide immigration education, training, and outreach to other professionals and the community.
