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A resolution recognizing June 2026 as Immigrant Heritage Month in Nashville and Davidson County.
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WHEREAS, Immigrant Heritage Month was started in 2014 to honor and recognize the countless contributions made by immigrants to the fabric of American society; and
WHEREAS, the United States is a nation of immigrants, for generations immigrants from around the world have built the economy of the United States and shaped the character of our community; and
WHEREAS, Nashville and Davidson County has a robust immigrant population. Immigrants are represented in all industries. They are business and community leaders, elected officials, artists, chefs, athletes, and scientists; and
WHEREAS, immigrants have contributed immeasurably to the economic prosperity, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit not only of Nashville and Davidson County, but the United States; and
WHEREAS, immigrants make up 15 percent of the population of Nashville and Davidson County. Nashville is also home to the largest Kurdish community in the United States, with a population of more than 15,000; and
WHEREAS, in 2013, immigrants made up 9.5 percent of all business owners in the greater Nashville area. As of 2019, there were over 13,000 immigrant small business owners in this area, showing the importance of the contribution of immigrants to Nashville’s economic vitality; and
WHEREAS, since January 2025, hundreds of Nashvillians have been arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. More than half of these community members had no prior criminal conviction or any pending criminal charges; and
WHEREAS, now more than ever it is important to recognize and celebrate the contributions of immigrants in the United States and fight against policies that harm our immigrant community; and
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Council supports and stands united with our immigrant community.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:
Section 1. The Metropolitan Council hereby goes on record as recognizing June 2026 as Immigrant Heritage Month in Nashville and Davidson County.
Section 2. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.