Open Arms benefit concert: A night of music, community and immigrant support in Iowa City

The Open Arms benefit concert is more than just a night of music. It's an opportunity to support immigrant and refugee neighbors as well as IC Compassion, a community resource dedicated to helping newcomers build stable, fulfilling lives.

For the past 19 years, IC Compassion has been a faith-based 5013c nonprofit that aims to engage “culturally diverse communities together through hope, opportunities, and partnerships.” The organization provides legal aid, English as a second language classes, and computer tutoring. They also offer additional workshops, food assistance and citizenship classes to help families settle into their new home.

The Open Arms Benefit Concert, which starts at 7 p.m. on Friday at the James Theater, will support IC Compassion and its mission. Tickets are $25, and all proceeds benefit the organization’s ongoing work.

Local acts take the stage for immigrant support

Local singer-songwriter Nic Arp, who also works as an Instructional Services Specialist and KRUI Operations Manager at the University of Iowa, organized the concert. Arp has long supported IC Compassion and the organization's work and the growing support needed for these organizations.

“Right now, there's a lot of pressure on nonprofit agencies doing good work for people who need it,” Arp said.  “It is important for a community to be welcoming of people who want to come here and be part of our community, work jobs, and contribute positively to our town and our region.”

Iowa City officials confirm support for immigrants, community

The Iowa City City Council, in response to shifting immigration policies at the state and federal level, sent a letter to residents on Tuesday affirming their support for community members and organizations.

“Iowa City’s values are not hard to understand, nor are they progressive, unreasonable, or even new. In fact, they are supported by this country’s own promise of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all people,” the letter said. “We remain committed to these values and stand opposed to any Federal or State legislative proposal that makes it more difficult for our local public servants to support each and every member of our community.”

Arp said Friday's concert is about developing a 'safety net' for immigrants and refugees.

“This is an opportunity for people to learn a little bit more about a local group that's doing that hard work right here in town," he said.

The concert will feature two bands, The Fritters and Kerak. The Fritters is a trio that includes Arp, Jennifer Horn-Frasier, and Iowa Rock and Roll Hall inductee Dave Rosazza. The three-piece band specializes in original and acoustic cover songs rooted in the Americana genre. Kerak is anchored by French musician, songwriter, and composer Nielo Gaglione on the Algerian mandole and Tara McGovern on the fiddle, creating a global blend of love and unity through strings and song.

Iowa City DJ Izaak T will be spinning discs from around the world before the show and in between sets.

Friday's event is about spreading awareness, enjoying the beauty of music and strengthening a community.

“Music makes life better, no matter how you participate in it when you have an opportunity to use music and live music, and people come together in one place at one time with a focused idea that it can be very powerful,” Arp said. “We’re not out preach to anybody or expound politically we are here to give people a chance to learn and support IC Compassion and to support I see compassion and the people they serve… It’s a moral imperative that we are welcoming as a community.”

Jessica Rish is an entertainment, dining and education reporter for the Iowa City Press-Citizen. She can be reached atJRish@press-citizen.com or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @rishjessica_