The Offices of New Americans (ONA) network convened with Biden administration officials in Washington D.C., aiming to advance immigrant and refugee inclusion across the United States.
This annual gathering, co-hosted by the American Immigration Council and WES Global Talent Bridge, brought together 35 state government officials representing ONAs from various states.
The forum provided a platform for policy leaders to address critical issues affecting their states, such as federal policy developments and the surge of asylum seekers from the U.S-Mexico border to the interior. ONA leaders engaged in discussions on workforce integration, upskilling, language access, access to government services, resettlement of new arrivals, and legislation impacting immigrant communities.
Victoria Francis, the Council's Deputy Director of State and Local Initiatives, noted the enthusiasm among participants, stating, "It is one of the only conferences I have been to where people wish there were even more days." The bipartisan ONA Network consists of 19 state government offices committed to immigrant integration and inclusion work. The offices, located within different state government agencies, have seen significant growth, with the number of ONAs more than tripling since 2019.
States like North Dakota and Maine have recently joined the ONA Network, showcasing the expanding investment in immigrant inclusion work. Despite varying political landscapes, all states grapple with workforce shortages in key industries. ONAs are at the forefront of innovative responses, addressing recruitment and upskilling of immigrants to fill open positions.
The humanitarian crises, including the war in Ukraine and the withdrawal from Afghanistan, have led to the resettlement of large numbers of humanitarian parolees in the U.S., posing a challenge for ONAs nationwide. The arrival of asylum seekers from the southern border adds another layer of complexity. ONAs have been pivotal in leading statewide responses, collaborating with local partners, and coordinating with federal counterparts to ensure safety and opportunity for new arrivals.
The convening also facilitated relationship-building with federal partners, including U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). State representatives participated in the National Immigrant Inclusion and Citizenship Education Conference, sharing successful integration programs. The final day included meetings with federal partners at the White House, addressing the impact of federal policies on communities.
With the 2024 presidential election approaching and immigration a top concern for voters, the ONA Network's strength and collaboration with federal counterparts offer hope for addressing future challenges in immigrant integration across the nation.
By Salam Bustanji
