Maine Immigration Forum (MiF) 2025

The event date is yet to be determined. We have tentatively scheduled, but we are still finalizing details. Please stay tuned for updates. Ticket holders will be notified as soon as the new date is confirmed. Thank you for your patience and understanding!

The Maine Immigration Forum (MiF), an event spearheaded by the Maine Immigrants’ Rights Coalition, serves as a beacon of celebration and recognition for immigrant communities across the state.

As the event enters its second year under the theme "Embracing our Diverse Roots, Cultivating our Future in Maine," its mission remains steadfast: to elevate, motivate, and celebrate immigrant communities throughout our state.

This year’s theme encapsulates reflection and anticipation, weaving together a narrative of rootedness and optimism that resonates with Maine's rural landscape. Central to this narrative is an acknowledgment of all the people who inhabit the state we call Maine from the indigenous peoples who have stewarded this land for generations to the diverse immigrant communities. Their voices are woven throughout the fabric of the event.

As participants come together to celebrate their collective heritage, the Maine Immigration Forum stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, inclusivity, and diversity in building a stronger Maine.

The MiF is an annual gathering, open to all members of the community, including residents, local organizations, businesses, youth groups, seniors, and marginalized populations.

Event Draft Program:

4:00 pm - Event doors open

5:00 pm - Networking & Community Tabling

5:30 pm - Dinner is served

6:30 pm - Main Reception begins

8:30 pm - Event concludes

Info: Somali Bantu Farm Exchange Q&A: Conversations with the staff and volunteers. Exploring collaborative efforts between immigrant communities and indigenous groups, promoting cultural exchange and addressing food insecurity.

Info: Cocktail & Connection
A time for event attendees to come together to connect and enjoy a meal featuring a variety of cuisines from immigrant-owned catering.
Community Tabling
Small Businesses: Showcasing products and crafts from immigrant entrepreneurs, promoting economic empowerment and community resilience.
Voter Registration Table: Encouraging civic engagement and voter participation among immigrant and marginalized communities.
Community Tables: Providing space for community organizations to showcase their work and connect with attendees, fostering collaboration and solidarity.
Featured Art Exhibition
Commissioned art pieces depicting Maine's immigrant and indigenous communities will be displayed around the venue.
Storytelling
Presentation by The Telling Room, featuring immigrant youth voices and narratives that highlight the importance of amplifying marginalized perspectives.

Info: As the event enters its second year under the theme "Embracing our Diverse Roots, Cultivating our Future in Maine," its mission remains steadfast: to elevate, motivate, and celebrate immigrant communities throughout our state. During our Reception, we will have the pleasure of special guests Keyko Torres (Kay-ko Toh-rez) of PresentMaine as our event emcee, and Marcelle Medford Assistant Professor at Bates College as our inspiring Keynote Speaker.
• Land Acknowledgement: For the ancestral land of the Wabanaki, honoring indigenous heritage and stewardship.
• Moment of Silence: A moment of reflection and remembrance for the late Lado Lodoka and the victims of the Lewiston shooting.
•Fundraising Mention: Highlighting the significance of financial support to MIRC.
•Keynote Address: Professor Marcelle Medford.
Excellence in Service Awards: Recognizing the late Lado Lodoka & Alain Nahimana for their outstanding contributions to advancing immigrant rights in Maine.
•Performances

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Thompson's Point, Thompsons Point, Portland, United States