They came to call Cape Ann home

“We’ve all come from somewhere,” is the simple concept behind “Portraits of Cape Ann Immigrants.”

The new exhibition of photographic portraits and stories of recent immigrants to Cape Ann, a collaboration between the Sawyer Free Library and Wellspring House, opens Thursday, Nov. 14, at the library, 2 Dale Ave.

There is a free opening reception with refreshments provided by The Open Door on Thursday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Many of those featured in the exhibit will be at the event with their families.

Beth Pocock, the library’s assistant director, said what often gets lost in the national debate on immigration is the human dimension.

“We hope that these beautiful portraits will help connect Cape Ann residents with those whose experiences are vastly different than their own and foster a greater sense of acceptance and understanding throughout the community,” she said.

A conversation between Pocock and Melissa

See IMMIGRANTS, Page 2

Syrian immigrants Seham and Rashed say,: “Here, we don’t know any Arab people, but we know a lot of people who are friends.” Their portrait and story are part of the exhibition “Portraits of Cape Ann Immigrants,” opening Thursday, Nov. 14, at the Sawyer Free Library, 2 Dale Ave.

Courtesy photo