International Dinner & Immigration Talk: An Evening of Food, Culture, and Conversation
Manchester UMC invites you to a Welcome Neighbor STL International Supper Club to support immigrant and refugee families in St. Louis. Enjoy an evening of authentic Afghan and Syrian cuisine, lively conversation, and connection with friends old and new. These meals give immigrant and refugee families the opportunity to share their knowledge and traditions while guests experience a glimpse into their cultures.
Your participation also helps provide support through our Unhoused Meal Program, offering free meals every other Friday to 100 individuals at the Peter and Paul Community Campus. Donations help purchase groceries and supplies for our chefs.
Guest Speaker: Jessica Mayo
Jessica will provide a brief overview of U.S. immigration law, from its foundational principles to the ways it has evolved in 2025. She will discuss the work of her organization, Migrant and Immigrant Community Action (MICA) Project, and highlight ways the public can get involved to support immigrant communities.
Key Facts & Statistics (2025):
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The BBB, passed by Congress in July, added $500–$1,500 in fees to many immigration applications. One common form of relief that used to cost $135 now costs $1,635.
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Only 1.55% of FY 2025 new cases sought deportation based on alleged criminal activity. (TRAC Reports)
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Over 3.4 million cases were pending in Immigration Court as of July 2025.
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Only 21.3% of immigrants, including unaccompanied children, had legal representation when a removal order was issued.
About Jessica Mayo:
Jessica co-founded MICA with Nicole Mejia. As an attorney, she represents clients in removal proceedings and affirmative immigration applications, while leading communications and centering community voice and racial equity. She has participated in initiatives like the St. Louis Rapid Response Coalition to meet community needs in innovative ways.
Jessica lives in St. Louis with her husband and three children, instilling values of social justice through the Catholic tradition. She graduated from Washington University School of Law, is licensed in Missouri, and publishes the Immigration Frontlines newsletter at jessicadm.substack.com
Menu Highlights ($40 per person)
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Yalanji (Syrian): Grape leaves stuffed with meat, rice, herbs, and spices
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Vegetarian Fatayer (Syrian): Pie filled with spinach and cheese
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Vegetarian Bolani (Afghan): Pan-fried flatbread stuffed with vegetables
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Mantu (Afghan): Dumplings filled with meat, lentils, and spices, drizzled with yogurt and tomato sauce
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Harissa (Syrian): Semolina cake with milk, ghee, sugar syrup, and pistachios
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Jallab Juice (Syrian): Fruit syrup made from carob, dates, and grapes
Seats are limited! Join us for this meaningful evening of food, culture, and learning for $40 per person.