Niagara Foundation Hosts Inspiring Interfaith Thanksgiving Dinner

Niagara Foundation Hosts Inspiring Interfaith Thanksgiving Dinner

Niagara Foundation welcomed public officials, faith leaders, community members, and volunteers to its annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Program, an evening dedicated to gratitude, unity, and meaningful dialogue.

The program opened with remarks from host Leyla Ozbey, who highlighted the Foundation’s mission of building bridges across communities. Guests then enjoyed a series of thoughtful speeches from distinguished leaders.

Speeches From Community and Public Leaders

• U.S. Representative Delia Ramirez shared a video message expressing her appreciation for the interfaith community.

The program also briefly introduced District 8 candidate Yasmeen Bankhoole, a committed community advocate focused on fair representation and stronger community engagement.

Keynote Address

The keynote was delivered by Reverend Nanette Sawyer of the Fourth Presbyterian Church of Chicago. Her address, “Building Harmony Through Gratitude,” emphasized the transformative role of thankfulness in connecting diverse communities.

Turkey Show, Dinner, and Voices of Gratitude

A surprise Turkey Show added joy and excitement to the evening, followed by a communal dinner served at four stations to encourage conversation and connection.

Throughout dinner, guests recorded short reflections for the “Voices of Gratitude” project—a touching compilation video shown near the end of the program.

Music and Closing Remarks

The audience enjoyed a beautiful Ud performance by volunteers Enes Odabas and Ahmet Sahin, followed by remarks from Embrace Relief Midwest Director Elshad Abdullayev on the organization’s humanitarian mission.

The night concluded with expressions of appreciation to Niagara Foundation volunteers, TASC for hosting the event, and Thousand Tales for preparing the evening’s meal.