2nd Annual Friendsgiving: A Courageous Welcome

The Metro Human Relations Commission is proud to announce the second annual Friendsgiving this Thanksgiving season. We invite the people of Nashville and Davidson County to join us in affirming that what unites us is greater than what divides us. Together, we can continue to uplift the values of dignity, tolerance, peace, and mutual respect that make our community strong. 

We invite you to join us for this event (free) to connect and meet fellow community members working to make Nashville a better city for all of us.

• Tickets are free, group registrations are welcome.

• The dinner will feature local chefs and restaurants.

This year, our motto is "A Courageous Welcome". We invite you consider what a courageous welcome can be, to constantly stay open, welcoming, maintaining a hopeful stance of civility, of hospitality in political climate that aims to divide.

Speakers include:

• Educator: Dr. Forrest Harris

• Council Member Terry Vo

• Council Member Sean Parker

• Council Member Courtney Johnston

How did Friendsgiving start?

In 2024, the Commission launched an ambitious initiative entitled Humans Over Hate in response to the troubling rise of hate and hate- related violence, not only across our nation, but also here in our state and city. Since that time, our community and our country have continued to experience painful incidents of hate and violence, accompanied by an increase in social and political polarization. 

In the face of these challenges, MHRC remains committed to fostering opportunities for unity, understanding, reflection and connection. Last November, we hosted Friendsgiving (honoring the legacy of hospitality of Randy Rayburn) at the Nashville Farmers Market — a citywide gathering that brought together residents from diverse backgrounds to share in a common meal and celebrate our shared human desire for peace, security, and belonging. The event was a resounding success and demonstrated the power of community over division.