Building Connections and Affirming the Importance of Inclusive Communities
September 12 -20, 2020
Prince George’s County Council Member Deni Taveras (D) District 2, Prince George’s County residents and hundreds of communities across the country will celebrate the importance of inclusive neighborhoods during “Welcoming Week”, from September 12 – 20, 2020. Council Member Taveras and the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) will partner to host a series of virtual events commemorating the week-long celebration.
Welcoming Week is an initiative of Welcoming America, a national nonprofit helping communities reach their full economic and social potential by building communities that are inclusive toward all residents, including immigrants. This year’s theme is “Creating Home Together.”
Council Member Taveras says this celebration, dedicated to supporting and celebrating Prince George’s County’s immigrant residents is exciting and timely.
“Immigrants are a vital part of our communities, and it is important that we recognize and uplift them, whether by revitalizing neighborhoods with new businesses or bringing cultural traditions to the forefront. We look forward to an exciting week of virtual events and activities commemorating the inaugural ‘Welcoming Week’ in Prince George’s County.”
Council Member Taveras also noted the Council’s longstanding commitment to supporting the County’s immigrant community, most notably, establishment of the Immigrant Services and Language Access Initiative.
“The Immigrant Services and Language Access (ISLA) Initiative was established as part of the approved FY 2018 County Budget and ensures that all residents have access to County agencies and services regardless of language barriers. The ISLA program also provides legal representation to County residents that are in immigration proceedings, helping families and communities stay together. As the daughter of immigrants, my involvement with ISLA has been one of my most fulfilling accomplishments as a member of the Council and I look forward to working with the community to provide additional support to our immigrant community in the months and years ahead.”
The establishment of ISLA followed the adoption of Council Resolution 002-2017, legislation introduced by Council Member Taveras denouncing anti-immigrant activity, racial bias and discrimination, hate speech, hate crimes and harassment in Prince George’s County.
For additional information on virtual Welcoming Week activities, please visit, www.facebook.com/DeniTaveras/.
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