Title
To Recognize and Celebrate the month of June as Immigrant Heritage Month
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WHEREAS, Columbus is home to more than 155,000 residents who were born in nations including Bhutan, Somalia, Democratic Republic of Congo, India, and Mexico, among others, with roughly 8% of the City’s total population being foreign born; and
WHEREAS, Immigrants accounted for 29.5 percent of the population growth in Columbus between 2014 and 2019; and are the number one factor behind population growth in Columbus; and
WHEREAS, For the past seven years, the United States has celebrated Immigrant Heritage Month during the month of June to pay tribute to the diverse immigrant groups that enrich our nation’s history and culture; and
WHEREAS, Immigrant Heritage Month is a nationwide celebration held every June as part of an ongoing effort to empower immigrants and allies to share stories and drive action that demonstrate how immigration is good for our communities, economy, and country; and
WHEREAS, The Riverview International Center empowers immigrants and refugees in Columbus by supporting individuals, strengthening families, and nurturing community through the wide range of services offered; Riverview helps our new neighbors navigate life in the States and does so much to help make Columbus the welcoming city that it is.
WHEREAS, The City of Columbus has a proud history of welcoming immigrants and refugees by offering a safe and thriving environment to support refugees seeking a new beginning. Efforts to support these communities are ongoing and constantly evolving; and now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS: That this Council does hereby recognize and celebrate the month of June as Immigrant Heritage Month.