The Immigrant Justice Coalition (IJC) hosted a free social gathering and jazz performance by the Carolina Social Music Club (CSMC) at the Boone Unitarian Universalist Fellowship on Saturday. The event aimed to foster community and demonstrate support for immigrant residents, also serving as a fundraiser for the IJC's emergency fund. Boone Tempest and High Country Peace and Justice collaborated with IJC to organize the gathering.
Since its establishment as a nonprofit in 2022, the IJC has worked to ensure that immigrants in the High Country feel respected, valued, and included as part of the community. Sarah Donovan, a long-time member of IJC's outreach committee, emphasized that the event was intended to be "really pro-immigrant, really in support, a show of solidarity with our immigrant neighbors."
In addition to the jazz performance, the IJC organized a community picnic. Attendees enjoyed complimentary tamales, provided by one of IJC’s board members, along with Kilwins ice cream and other snacks. Throughout the gathering, IJC advertised and accepted donations for its emergency fund.
This emergency fund distributes financial aid to immigration-affected residents across Watauga, Ashe, and Avery counties. It also provides scholarships to graduating high school students. Donovan explained that the fund aids "anyone who is immigration-affected and needs help," noting that assistance has covered a range of needs, from medical expenses to rent and utilities. A key reason for this fund, according to IJC, is that immigrants often do not qualify for other government assistance programs.
The Carolina Social Music Club, a jazz group based in Charlotte, performed at the event in an unplanned capacity. The CSMC was originally scheduled to play at The Appalachian Theatre of the High Country the following day for the High Country Jazz Society. However, co-leader, founder, and saxophonist Greg Jarrell, in communication with Sarah Donovan and IJC, decided to perform for an event supporting a social cause, specifically immigration solidarity. Jarrell stated that they wanted to "add another opportunity to perform" and work with the Immigrant Justice Coalition to create an event that would connect with community members.
The CSMC highlighted the historical significance of music in periods of public reform, particularly in the current political climate. Jarrell noted that individuals in the community recognize the need to act together against what he referred to as the "violence of the Trump Administration." He stressed the importance of creating spaces where people can unite, organize, and enjoy life, fostering friendships crucial for what he termed resistance. Some of the songs performed by the CSMC were chosen because of their deep inspiration from social movements of the mid-19th century. A CSMC member noted that the chosen pieces aimed to "amplify what's happening in our country" for those who might otherwise lack a voice.
