Release Date: 6/2/2026

A woman singing into a microphone.

City and Idaho Office for Refugees Present ‘We the People: Becoming American’

BOISE – The City of Boise, in partnership with Idaho Office for Refugees, is hosting  We the People: Becoming American at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 4, at Jack’s Urban Meeting Place (JUMP, 1000 W Myrtle St., Boise) in commemoration of America 250. This live storytelling event features the voices of Americans whose journey to the U.S. started with displacement. 

Featured storytellers include: 

  • Ernestine performing an opening song
  • Alla Aguilar and Tom Kanon, mother and son 
  • Moses Mukengezi 
  • Yasmin Aguilar  
  • Ezra ‘Kevin’ Irankunda  

Storytellers were born and raised in some of the top countries of origin for Idaho’s refugee resettlement program, including Ukraine, Democratic Republic of Congo, Afghanistan, as well as Uganda and Rwanda. 

Guests will explore Idaho's resettlement history, hear firsthand accounts from storytellers, and experience the cultural heritages they continue to carry with them as they contribute to the American experiment. 
Come early to explore Boise Public Library's Excitetrike and check out books, games, and activities! 

EVENT SCHEDULE 
5:00 p.m. Drinks & small bites available for purchase (optional) 
6:30 p.m. Program begins (6th Floor, Pioneer Room) 

This event is presented by the City of Boise in partnership with the Idaho Office for Refugees and hosted at JUMP, part of the City of Boise's America 250 celebration. For a full schedule of city-sponsored America 250 events, visit cityofboise.org/America250. 
   
The City of Boise is committed to ensuring equal access to all public meetings, programs, and services. Reasonable accommodations and effective communication—such as ASL interpretation, materials in alternative formats and language access—are available at no cost to facilitate participation. To request an accommodation, please contact us at CommunityEngagement@cityofboise.org or call (208) 972-8500, TTY: 711.   

About the City of Boise’s America 250 Celebration   
The City of Boise is proud to participate in a citywide celebration commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. We're celebrating what makes Boise unique: a community grounded in history, strengthened by diverse voices, and committed to building a thriving future for generations to come. Through community events, tours and exhibitions, learning resources, and the Fourth of July celebration, we invite everyone to explore the people and places that have shaped our city so far and ways to participate in and contribute to the American story. All events are free and open to all. More information: CityOfBoise.org/America250

Jennifer Yribar, Communications Manager jyribar@cityofboise.org 208-608-7051