Immigrant Heritage Month, established in 2014, is celebrated annually each June to honor and uplift the stories of immigrants and their communities across the United States. This year, nearly 30 cities and counties have launched a multilingual campaign titled “You Belong Here,” emphasizing that immigrants have always been an integral part of America.
Led by the national networks Cities for Action (C4A) and Counties for Citizenship (CC4C), the campaign will share messages in nearly 30 languages throughout June, aiming to inspire and support immigrant communities nationwide. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said, “Chicago is a proud, welcoming, and international city shaped by diverse cultures. People from around the world come here seeking refuge and opportunity, and together, we build a city of hope and resilience.”
Participants include cities and counties across California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, and Washington.
Ahead of the campaign, the Boston City Council declared its recognition of Immigrant Heritage Month, highlighting that immigrants make up over 28% of Boston’s population and own 28% of its businesses. The council emphasized immigrants’ vital roles in sectors like healthcare, construction, education, and entrepreneurship, contributing billions to the city’s economy and tax base.
The declaration also noted immigrants’ cultural contributions, enriching Boston’s diversity and community through food, music, language, and the arts.
Boston will host a month-long “Belonging City” festival featuring community concerts and panels, including discussions spotlighting LGBTQ immigrants during Pride Month.
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu praised immigrant communities for driving the city’s cultural vibrancy and prosperity, affirming Boston’s commitment to inclusivity.
Nationally, immigrants contribute significantly to the economy regardless of legal status. According to the American Immigration Council, immigrant families in Dallas paid nearly $1 billion in state and local taxes in 2022. In New York, immigrant households contribute over $27 billion annually in taxes.
A 2023 report showed immigrant-led households paid $524.7 billion in taxes in 2021—about 15.9% of U.S. government revenue—while making up 13.6% of U.S. households.
Undocumented workers also contribute substantially, paying up to $96.7 billion in taxes in 2022, supporting Social Security and Medicare programs from which they do not benefit.
Since America’s founding, immigrants have sought new opportunities and thrived, contributing to the nation’s growth and prosperity. This month and beyond, cities nationwide continue to celebrate their stories and contributions.
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