SEATTLE, WA — On Thursday, September 4, Refugee Artisan Initiative (RAI, pronounced “ray,” like ray of sunshine) broke ground on the renovation of its Lake City building.
The facility will be an active production space. As part of its mission to partner with refugee and immigrant women as they build new lives in the US, RAI runs workforce development programs that create opportunities for women from underemployed groups to learn new skills, earn income, support their families, and give back to their communities. RAI artisans create upcycled products, transforming materials that would otherwise be discarded into functional and beautiful items.
Photo Credits: JT Allen Media
The Maker Space will also be a place for storytelling, creativity, and cultural expression. RAI is dedicated to sharing the stories and showcasing the art of refugee and immigrant communities. “RAI is a space of belonging for newcomers to our community. As we reimagine this space, we are not only creating opportunities for artisans to thrive—we are also weaving together a stronger, more inclusive community,” said Ming-Ming Tung Edelman, Executive Director of RAI.
Photo Credits: JT Allen Media
The groundbreaking featured remarks from King County Councilmember Rod Dembowski, WA State Senator Javier Valdez, WA State Representative Darya Farivar, and Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell.
“Through RAI, we see Seattle’s values in action: welcoming, inclusive, and committed to creating opportunities that uplift everyone,” said Mayor Bruce Harrell. “RAI’s efforts strengthen our city, and we’re proud to stand with them as they work to empower and support even more immigrant and refugee women in our communities.”
Photo Credits: JT Allen Media
RAI’s capital campaign is in its final mile, with less than $500,000 left to raise toward the $4.55 million project goal. The renovated building is scheduled to reopen in 2026 and will serve as a destination and hub for the Lake City neighborhood—celebrating culture, fostering creativity, and creating economic opportunity.
About Refugee Artisan Initiative
Refugee Artisan Initiative (RAI) partners with refugee and immigrant women to transform skills into sustainable livelihoods. Through training, production opportunities, and community connections, RAI helps artisans stitch new lives while advancing a circular economy that benefits both people and the planet.
To learn more about and support RAI’s capital project, community members can visit:
https://refugeesarts.networkforgood.com/projects/255554-building-together
Media Contact:
Shelley Lawson
info@refugeesarts.org
425-272-5376
