The Inaugural Randy Rayburn Friendsgiving Feast will launch Nashville’s Humans Over Hate initiative, aimed at confronting hate-related acts and fostering tolerance between diverse groups. The free event will take place on Thursday, November 21, at the Nashville Farmers Market and will feature multiple food vendors serving Thanksgiving-themed items. Speakers will introduce the ‘No Hate on My Plate’ program, with different facets of the Humans Over Hate program. They will discuss Randy Rayburn’s legacy. Rayburn was a beloved Nashville restaurateur and owner of iconic establishments such as the Sunset Grill and Midtown Cafe. He left a legacy of warmth, service, and bringing people together in celebration.

The ‘No Hate on My Plate’ program, a key feature of the Humans Over Hate initiative, is based on the belief that the more we know about each other, the less we fear each other. It organizes faith communities, other community groups, food-centric organizations, and the business community. They will host meals across Nashville each month. These gatherings will allow members from different religions, races, ethnicities, and socio-economic backgrounds to discuss their experiences and build a sense of community.

Moderators will document the discussions and report findings back to the Metro Human Relations Commission (MHRC), providing insights into residents’ experiences and perceptions. These reports will inform policymakers, community leaders, nonprofits and neighborhood organizations, offering a clearer understanding of social dynamics in Nashville and Davidson County.

Key attendees include representatives from the Metro Human Relations Commission, leaders from Nashville’s faith groups, business, and nonprofit communities, and Rayburn’s friends and colleagues.

Click for tickets to The Inaugural Randy Rayburn Friendsgiving Feast.