Celebrity PSAs, proclamations raise awareness and encourage Americans to tell their own welcome story
WASHINGTON – CWS today joined Welcome.us in kicking off Immigrant Heritage Month. The June celebration in cities and states across the nation honors the accomplishments and the role of immigrants in shaping the history and culture of the United States.
“The rich cultural heritage of America is intricately tied to the immigrants who come to the United States and enriched us with their talent, vitality and diversity. We cannot tell the true story of America without telling the story of our nation’s immigrants,” said CWS President and CEO the Rev. John L. McCullough. McCullough also is an honorary member of the Welcome.us board of directors.
Welcome.us also announced new additions to its list of states, cities and policymakers who have signed onto the campaign to declare June “Immigrant Heritage Month.” The list now includes:
Rep. Linda Sánchez (D-Calif.); Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper; Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick; Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval; the Louisiana House of Representatives; the cities of Cincinnati, Ohio; Houston, Tex.; Las Vegas, Nev.; Miami, Fla.; Opelika, Ala.; Portland, Ore.; Raleigh, N.C.; and Summit County in Utah. (Full list atWelcome.us.)
Immigrant Heritage Month provides opportunities for all Americans to celebrate the nation’s diverse immigrant heritage. Supporters are encouraged to get involved by sharing their own immigrant heritage and their welcome stories online and across social media platforms, using the hashtag #WelcomeUS.
“We are thrilled that elected leaders across the U.S. have recognized the importance of Immigrant Heritage Month,” said Tolu Olubunmi, executive director of Welcome.us. “America is a great nation with a rich culture because of the unique experiences each of us have had. Immigrant Heritage Month is a time to celebrate that diversity and to honor the experiences that unite us. Throughout the month of June, we are encouraging all Americans to share their own welcome stories. We are proud to be joined in this effort by Americans from all walks of life including elected officials, celebrities, business leaders and influential social organizations who will help carry our message forward.”
“Our country has a rich and storied history thanks in part to the contributions of immigrants,” said Rep. Linda Sánchez. “Immigrants helped found this great nation and they continue to help it grow and prosper. Recognizing June as Immigrant Heritage Month honors their influence and the role they continue to play in shaping the history and culture of the United States.”
To help celebrate Immigrant Heritage Month, celebrities will be directing and starring in PSAs (below) about the importance of the month and will share their own welcome stories.
Sally Field: “Sally Field Celebrates Astronomer Williamina Fleming”
Everdream: “Welcome.us – Celebrate June as Immigrant Heritage Month”
For more information contact Amanda Keating.