“Bring me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses.” The essence of the American dream is rooted in the tales of immigrants. Their stories of overcoming  adversity are profound examples of the American dream: freedom and equal opportunity for all who pursue a better life for themselves and their families.

But what do you do when everything you love is on another continent? You find ways to bring those joys to your new home. Immigrant communities grew from their communal struggles, but thrived from celebrating and exchanging within their new homes.   This display explores some of the challenges and triumphs immigrants faced as they crafted a new life in the “land of opportunity.”

Case 1: Community Building: What Does "Starting Over" Look Like

Case 2: Community Organizing: Self-Protection and Self-Preservation

Case 3: Celebrating Community: Joy in Your Community

Case 4: Celebrating Community: Joy in Your Community (continued)