Aquila’s Nest Vineyards will be the site on Thursday, August 6, from 6 to 9 pm, of a powerful evening of wine, music, and solidarity in support of Danbury Unites for Immigrants.

Across the country and here in Connecticut, immigrant families are being targeted with fear, violence, and intimidation. Organizers say it is up to everyone to come together, protect one another, and resist hate with unity and love. Experience the power of creativity, connection, and collective resistance — and learn how Danbury Unites for Immigrants is organizing to protect, mobilize, and uplift immigrant families in the greater Danbury area.

The event will feature local musicians, a local immigrant-owned food truck, and a silent auction featuring items from local businesses and artists.

Featured performers will include ZOP and singer-songwriter kiarakalts (Kiara Kaltschnee).

ZOP is a project of George Hanlon and Americo Carrasco, local musicians and friends. Over the past 20 years, they have played in various local bands. Hanlon has been a Danbury Elementary school teacher, and Carrasco teaches piano. Joining them is Matt Weber, who has played music since age 12, is Juilliard-trained, and has performed under noted conductors, composers, and artists.

kiarakalts reclaims her voice and explores her inner world through a lyrically driven blend of folk and jazz. Inspired by artists like Lizzy McAlpine, Norah Jones, and Olivia Dean, she finds herself writing intimate and vulnerable ballads that capture nuances of the messy, complicated, and undeniably beautiful human experience.

Her debut album, bittersweet nostalgia (2023), is a tribute to the love that remains and the love that is found in the wake of loss. She is currently recording her sophomore album, Return to Gravity, a story of honesty, letting go, and becoming.

Tickets begin at $60 for attendees, with a $30 ticket available for designated drivers and those under age 21, and are available at bit.ly/dufi-cheers. Each adult ticket includes one glass of wine and one meal voucher.

Aquila's Nest Vineyards is at 56 Pole Bridge Road in Sandy Hook.

All donations will benefit Greater Danbury Area Unites for Immigrants, supporting advocacy and community education work (printing fliers, know-your-rights cards) and helping provide emergency support for families affected by ICE detentions including bond assistance, legal fees, and basic family needs when the main breadwinner is abducted.

Greater Danbury Area Unites for Immigrants is a collective of local immigrant community leaders, Danbury immigrant-led organizations, and allies committed to working together to build the power of and to protect Danbury’s immigrant community. Its work as a collective is grounded in building the power of the Danbury immigrant community.