What an amazing night we had for our 5th annual event, Cincinnati Rhythm! It was an evening of joyful celebration, building stronger community connections, and celebrating the people who are committed to creating a stronger, more inclusive region. Music, dance, and food have the power to unite people and build community, and this was demonstrated throughout the night.  

We celebrated and reaffirmed what we know to be true: immigrants come here to give, innovate, create, and build thriving and vibrant communities.  Immigrants bring life experience, cultural heritage, and a desire to build inclusive communities, enriching all of our lives. We witnessed how this drive to build and grow a community is passed down through generations. Whether through economic impact, enhancing cultural vibrancy, or creative innovation and entrepreneurship, immigrants strengthen our region.   I want to congratulate the award recipients as well as the people who introduced them for their words of wisdom and inspiration.

Thank you to the award recipients: Lourdes Ribera (Legacy Award), Laura Castillo (Rising Star), Edouard Tende (Business Leader), and Koji Sado (Community Leader). Thank you to the people who introduced them: Karla Boldery (Lourdes), Mayte Castillo (Laura), Chuma Ekwueme (Edouard), and Bao Nguyen (Koji). I also want to thank so many people who made this night so special. As I shared at the event, there are three key pieces that make the event so special: 1.) the people who attend: not only bringing themselves, but their communities, their histories, and their desire to continue to build a welcoming, more inclusive community; 2.) the partnership with Findlay Kitchen and their members who share cultures through food; and 3.) the musical and dance performances: music and dance brings people together and creates its own language to build lasting relationships.  

Thank you to the Cultural Centre of India, Ijo Ugo, and Son del Caribe for bringing your interactive performances to the event. Thank you to the members of Findlay Kitchen joining us this year and serving up love, history, and joy: Rocky’s Home Flavor, the Arepa Place, Lotus Street Food, Jomun, Jay’s Nyam & Jam, and Sabor Alaniz. 

Thank you to the President of the Hamilton County Board of Commissioners, Denise Driehaus, for sharing an inspirational and timely message about the importance of recognizing our shared humanity and inherent dignity.  

I was profoundly and joyfully reminded of how strong our region is and how deeply committed people are to creating a stronger, more vibrant region where all may thrive regardless of where someone was born. We have the foundation and talent here to truly be a choice destination for global talent and innovation. 

I look forward to seeing you at our event next year.