Rural & Migrant Ministry was thrilled to host our Harvesting Justice Dinner on Nov. 20, 2025, at Temple B’Rith Kodesh in Rochester — an annual fundraising event that is dedicated to supporting RMM’s mission in Western New York.
Some 300 allies, supporters and community members came out for a beautiful evening of gratitude, solidarity, and support for justice and empowerment. With a cocktail hour, dinner and program, it was a chance for all to connect and share joy. Nearly 15 students from RMM’s Justice Organization of Youth, which uses Theatre of the Oppressed to advocate for social change, performed an original piece related to a recent workplace immigration raid, bringing in members of the audience. Mexican dance group Los Chinelos also performed in towering costumes, amid the guests.
This year’s honorees, recognized for their tireless work toward justice for rural and farmworking communities, were:
- Temple Sinai, Rochester
- St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Rochester
- Peter Dellinger, Esq.
- Cristina P., farmworker and community advocate
We are grateful to our emcee, Nita Byrd, who serves as Chaplain and Dean for Spiritual Engagement at Hobart & William Smith Colleges; Enelia Martinez, who provided interpretation; Episcopal SeniorLife Catering, led by Devon Fassanella; photographer Sapir Matmon; RIT alumni staff and volunteers Ariel Romano, Matt Mingle and Melissa Qualey; Monroe Community College volunteer Devon and SUNY Oswego volunteers Zach and Mollie; RMM intern alum Rhiannon Butchko at the registration table; and members of JOY who served as ushers and greeters.
And, we are so grateful to our event sponsors for their generous support:
- St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church, Rochester
- Reliant Credit Union
- Rochester Area Community Foundation
- RBC Wealth Management
- Guatemala Partners of Gates Presbyterian Church
- Episcopal SeniorLife Communities
- Annette Jiménez Gleason & Harry Gleason
Thanks to all who made our 2025 Harvesting Justice Dinner a smashing success!