May 19 - Erin Guinup of the Tacoma Refugee Choir

The Tacoma Refugee Choir is a non-auditioned choir of refugees, immigrants, and friends who seek belonging and are committed to creating a more equitable and welcoming community. In its first five years, the Tacoma Refugee Choir led by Erin Guinup has welcomed over 700 members from over 50 countries and performed for over 25,000 people at community, educational and government events, including WE Day, the National Race & Pedagogy Conference, and U.S. Citizenship ceremonies.  The choir received standing ovations at TEDxSeattle and has been featured on PBS and network television with stories and music videos of original songs created with members.  Additional programs include social-justice-oriented Teen Sings, a refugee-centered podcast, community singing events, and group music therapy classes. We may not change conditions for the 80+ million people displaced by wars, famine, and natural disasters, but we can welcome and love those who find themselves in our community.