Austin kicks off “Welcoming Week”

(ABC 6 News) – Austin kicks off it’s annual “Welcoming Week” on Thursday with events around the city planned each day through September 18.

Austin’s Human Rights Commission has named this year’s theme as “Where We Belong” as a way of bringing the community together and fostering a sense of belonging.

“Welcoming Week” was launched in 2012 to celebrate and showcase the movement of communities striving to be more welcoming places for all, including immigrants.

The week brings individuals and neighbors together with the opportunity to proclaim welcoming values through events and initiatives that foster a mutual understanding between immigrants and non-immigrants.

“Welcoming Week is a great opportunity to highlight the ongoing and purposeful work that goes into building an inclusive community on a yearly basis,” said Austin Mayor Steve King. “Taking time to honor and highlight these efforts during this special period is appropriate and we can really demonstrate our progress when we give it our focused perspective and thank all those working so hard to make Austin a more accepting and prosperous community.”

The Cedar River Farmers Market will kick-off the event on Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m. at 501 E. Oakland Avenue. Vendors, live entertainment by Debbie Anthony, food trucks, a bounce house for kids, and a dunk tank featuring local “celebrities” will all be on-hand.

See a full list of “Welcoming Week” events below.