LANSING — Michigan is a welcoming state to immigrants who contribute economically and culturally toward making our state a better place, Gov. Snyder said, proclaiming September 16-25 as Welcoming Week in Michigan, an annual designation.

“As we celebrate Welcoming Week, we have an ever sharper focus on the need for immigration reform and how it will benefit Michigan economically,” said Snyder. “Michigan’s history is rich with economic, entrepreneurial and cultural contributions from generations of immigrants. As a leading welcoming state, our arms are open to new Americans from around the world who will contribute to our competitiveness in the global marketplace now and into the future.”

Snyder established the Michigan Office for New Americans (MONA) in 2014 to help grow Michigan’s economy by retaining and attracting global talent to the state and promoting the skills, energy, and entrepreneurial spirit of Michigan immigrant communities.   

A new report released last month, “The Contributions of New Americans in Michigan,” documented the broad and positive economic impact being made by the more than 640,000 foreign-born individuals in Michigan. 

Published by the independent Partnership for a New American Economy, the report calculates the significant economic impact of New Americans in Michigan, as entrepreneurs and job creators, taxpayers and consumers and as workers — accounting for 25 percent of the state’s tech talent and helping to meet Michigan’s ever-increasing demand for workers in STEM and healthcare jobs.

MONA works with state agencies that provide services to immigrants; provides immigration-related information to the governor; and strives to create a more welcoming environment within the state. The office also helps coordinate existing services to immigrants and facilitate partnerships with non-profits, foundations and the private sector in the areas of licensing, workforce training, education, housing, healthcare and quality of life.

“Welcoming Week is a wonderful opportunity to showcase welcoming activities supported by Michiganders throughout the state who are building immigrant friendly communities,” said MONA Director Bing Goei. “Michiganders recognize how developing inclusive neighborhoods and celebrating our diversity benefits us all.”

Several Welcoming Week activities and events are scheduled around the state. A highlight will be the Welcoming Michigan Statewide Convening at Lansing Community College—West Campus, on Sept. 19, a daylong event that offers an opportunity to learn about efforts to create welcoming communities and share best practices on immigrant integration.