Quick Bytes
- Dallas City Council’s resolution and Welcoming Dallas Strategic Plan aim to integrate immigrants and refugees.
- Over 80% of the plan’s recommendations have been implemented, fostering civic and economic inclusion.
- The Welcoming America’s Interactive conference in Dallas highlighted local efforts and shared best practices.
- Despite federal inaction, local communities like Dallas continue to lead in creating welcoming environments for all.
Summary of Dallas’ Commitment to Welcoming Immigrants
In an effort to create a more inclusive city, the Dallas City Council passed a resolution six years ago, followed by the launch of the Welcoming Dallas Strategic Plan. This initiative has led to significant progress, with over 80% of its recommendations now realized, enhancing the integration of immigrants and refugees into the community.
The city’s dedication was showcased at the Welcoming America’s Welcoming Interactive conference, which brought together nearly 800 leaders to discuss and share strategies for fostering inclusive communities. The event featured sessions on language access, refugee resettlement, and financial empowerment, among others.
Notable figures, including basketball legend Dirk Nowitzki, contributed to the conference, emphasizing the importance of welcoming communities. The American Immigration Council’s State and Local Initiatives team also participated, celebrating new data on immigrant contributions in Dallas and engaging in community tours.
Local initiatives like Gateways for Growth continue to support cities in their efforts to improve immigrant inclusion. As the conference concluded, attendees prepared to bring back innovative ideas to their communities, with an eye on the next Welcoming Interactive in Detroit, Michigan, in May 2025.
Despite challenges at the federal level, cities like Dallas exemplify the power of local action in building communities that welcome and empower all residents, staying true to the nation’s immigrant-founded roots.
