People came together at the Long Table in Los Angeles on March 12, 2016. I had the chance to sit at the Long Table and spark the conversation and encourage the guests to share their stories of immigration. I enjoyed being a part of this event, which honored the experiences of those who had journeyed to America.

Grand Park was a beautiful and significant location for the event. One thing I noticed was the metal entrance sign that welcomed people into the park. It used several languages to say that the park was for everyone. Although our event was closed to the general public, the Long Table still conveyed the message of inviting people from all backgrounds to share their stories. Those at the event represented all cultures sitting together because of their connections with immigration. It was also fitting to have this event in the middle of the city’s civic center. This is where immigrants who have come to Los Angeles complete their legal records when transitioning from their home country to America.

I was happy to be involved with the first Long Table in Los Angeles. This event provided me with the opportunity to meet new people from all around the world. By recognizing a variety of immigration experiences, the Long Table made its own contribution to the greater immigration history of Los Angeles.

-Victoria Perez