Theo tin phila.gov
For Immediate Release: October 28, 2016
Published By: Office of the Mayor
Contact: Ajeenah Amir, (215) 686-6210, Ajeenah.Amir@phila.gov
Final Championship Game to Take Place November 5th Game Will Include a “Gateway of Nations” Tailgate Party and Naturalization Ceremony
PHILADELPHIA – When the City launched the Philadelphia International Unity Cup (PIUC), organizers immediately began a focused effort to utilize the event to better connect Philadelphia’s immigrant communities with each other and with City resources. Throughout the spring and summer months, the Office of Immigrant Affairs and the Department of Parks and Recreation hosted informational sessions and worked with various immigrant serving organizations. Participation from individuals and organizations were key in helping shape the PIUC tournament.
“As a result of these meetings, the tournament rules, a code of conduct, rosters, and all outreach materials were made available in Spanish, Cambodian, and Arabic,” said Deputy Managing Director Joanna Otero-Cruz. “And we also agreed that the culminating Championship game needed to include a celebration of our mutual heritages.”
Prior to the Championship Game on November 5th, all Philadelphians and team members are invited to enjoy a day of family-friendly fun with distinct international flavor including the “Gateway of Nations” international tailgate party featuring global cuisine provided by ethnic food trucks, vendors and multi-cultural performances.
Showcasing the pathway to citizenship will also be a key part of the PIUC experience. During the game festivities, at least twenty immigrants will take the oath to become a U.S. citizen during a special naturalization ceremony. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) District Director Michael Borgen will administer the Oath of Allegiance to America’s newest citizens. There will also be a parade of nations which will feature specially designed banners representing each of the 32 nations that participated in the tournament.
Mayor Kenney and his administration’s commitment to enriching the lives of immigrants and residents of the city has received positive attention outside of the city. In June, the White House recognized the City of Philadelphia and its launch of the Philadelphia International Unity Cup as one of a few Philadelphia initiatives highlighted for its innovative approach to celebrating cultural diversity.
The PIUC final championship game between Ivory Coast and Liberia will be held Saturday, November 5, at Citizens Bank Park. The game and festival are free and open to the public. More information about the PIUC is available at www.unitycup.phila.gov.
###
TOP
This content was last updated on October 28, 2016 by Office of the Mayor.
https://beta.phila.gov/press-releases/mayor/connecting-and-engaging-immigrant-communities-through-the-unity-cup/
