Dallas is the first certified welcoming city in Texas
Dallas is the first city in Texas to earn the Certified Welcoming status in recognition of inclusiveness and integration of immigrants.
The Office of Welcoming Communities and Welcoming Affairs (WCIA) successfully completed a rigorous certification process through Welcoming America, a non-partisan, national non-profit organization.
“Cities are the economic engines of Texas, and I am proud we have passed the selection criteria to be recognized as a welcoming certified city,” said Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson. “Dallas has a global economy and a vibrant culture highlighted by our diverse communities. We absolutely will leverage these assets to further grow our economy and advance inclusion in our City.”
Mayor Eric Johnson recognizes diversity as a strength alongside Dallas Chief of Equity and Inclusion Liz Cedillo-Pereira during Immigrant Heritage Month
Welcoming America evaluated local efforts to establish an inclusive community through government leadership, civic engagement, equitable access, education, economic development and connected and safe communities.
“The Office of Welcoming Communities and Immigrant Affairs was established to ensure we as a City are accessible, responsive and equitable to the needs of immigrant populations in Dallas,” said Dallas City Manager T.C. Broadnax. “This certification acknowledges the work we have done to become a model city for being inclusive and promoting the engagement of immigrants and refugees.”
Welcoming America launched the Certified Welcoming program in April 2017 to establish a formal designation for cities and counties that have acted on their commitment to welcoming and met the high bar set by the Welcoming Standard.
“Welcoming America congratulates Dallas as the first Texas city to become Certified Welcoming, recognizing the community’s outstanding efforts to create an inclusive community for everyone, including immigrants and refugees,” said Welcoming America Executive Director, Rachel Peric. “Dallas exemplifies the kind of leadership our country is looking for at a time when Americans are eager for solutions that advance economic vitality and ensure all Americans belong and thrive.”
WCIA seeks to bridge the space between newcomers and existing Dallas residents, to find common ground, to foster informed understanding and to promote shared leadership.
