Our world is witnessing a time of record migration and displacement. According to the United Nations High Commission for Refugees, there are now more than 60 million forcibly displaced people worldwide as the result of persecution, conflict, violence, or human rights violations. Cities around the world are on the front lines of this global crisis. As the number of urban displaced persons increases, so does our moral imperative to welcome and embrace them. Their success is our success.

Sanctuary: Design for Belonging presents a provocative graphic poster survey of contemporary emerging and internationally renowned artists creating at the intersection of art and immigrant/ migrant/ refugee rights. The exhibit also features select submissions and competition winners from Displaced: Design for Inclusive Cities, an international design ideas competition which called upon designers of all disciplines to apply the power of design thinking to the urgent need to welcome, support and empower urban immigrants and refugees. 

The exhibit explores how design processes, tactics, and solutions empower immigrants and refugees to fully participate in the social, civic, and economic fabric of our shared communities, along with a historic exploration of the lived experiences of various persons on their path of migration to the Pacific Northwest.