MACOMB COUNTY — Welcoming Michigan has unveiled a media campaign to send the message, “When Michigan welcomes immigrants, Michigan thrives.” Billboards on Hall Rd. in Utica and on Dequindre in Warren, as well as bus shelter ads on Van Dyke in Sterling Heights, urge local residents to welcome newcomers. 

Bus shelter posters feature real Michigan residents and their reasons for welcoming immigrants, such as “I enjoy living in a multicultural society” and “I have been coached, inspired, educated, befriended, and loved by immigrants.” 

The billboards are part of a positive media campaign organized by Welcoming Michigan, a group working to create a welcoming atmosphere for immigrants across the state. 

“So far the feedback has been really positive,” said Christine Sauvé of Welcoming Michigan. 

“Local residents are excited to see messages that showcase their communities as welcoming to people of all backgrounds.” 

The media campaign also highlights the important contributions immigrants make to the local culture and economy. “We believe it is in the state’s best interest to welcome immigrants,” says Sauvé. “Foreign-born residents contribute to the economy as business owners, consumers, students, and are an important part of the workforce. Working together is how we will create a more prosperous future.” 

To help Macomb County residents learn more about their new immigrant and refugee neighbors, Welcoming Michigan hosted a panel discussion titled, “Get to Know Your Neighbors!” on Thursday at the Sterling Heights Public Library. 

The discussion included inspiring stories of how some  immigrant and refugee neighbors came to the area and how they are giving back to the community. 

Welcoming Michigan is one of 22 Welcoming America affiliates around the country that is using positive messaging campaigns to highlight the shared values and contributions of immigrants in local communities. 

Since officially launching last May, the program has made great strides in connecting residents, hosting over 40 events and posting two previous billboards.

To learn more about Welcoming Michigan, please join the group by visiting WelcomingMichigan.org or find the group on Facebook.