Chambana Sun

The City of Champaign has been recognized as a Certified Welcoming place by Welcoming America. This prestigious designation acknowledges the city's commitment to inclusivity and its efforts to create a welcoming environment for all residents, including immigrants and newcomers.

In a recent episode of the Chambana Proud podcast, Terri and Carly had the opportunity to speak with Rachel Joy from the City of Champaign and Akua Forkuo-Sekyere from the New American Welcome Center. These individuals played pivotal roles in driving the city's efforts to become a Certified Welcoming place.

During the 45-minute segment, Rachel Joy and Akua Forkuo-Sekyere provided an in-depth look at the work that went into achieving this designation. They discussed the various initiatives and programs implemented by the city to foster a sense of belonging and ensure that everyone feels welcome and included.

Rachel Joy, representing the City of Champaign, expressed her excitement about the recognition, saying, "We are thrilled to be recognized as a Certified Welcoming place. This designation reaffirms our commitment to creating an inclusive community that values diversity and celebrates the contributions of all residents."

Akua Forkuo-Sekyere, from the New American Welcome Center, praised the collaborative efforts between the city and community organizations, stating, "This achievement is the result of a collective endeavor. It demonstrates the power of partnerships and the dedication of individuals who are passionate about building welcoming communities."

To earn the Certified Welcoming designation, the City of Champaign had to meet a set of rigorous criteria set forth by Welcoming America. These criteria encompass various areas, including government leadership, equitable access to services, education and economic opportunities, and community engagement.

The designation as a Certified Welcoming place not only reflects the city's commitment to inclusivity but also highlights its efforts to promote diversity and ensure that all residents have access to the resources they need to thrive.

As a Certified Welcoming place, the City of Champaign joins a network of communities across the United States that share a common goal of creating inclusive and welcoming environments. This recognition serves as a testament to the city's ongoing commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and embracing diversity.

To learn more about the City of Champaign's journey to becoming a Certified Welcoming place, you can listen to the Chambana Proud podcast episode featuring Rachel Joy and Akua Forkuo-Sekyere. The episode provides valuable insights into the city's initiatives and the collaborative efforts that made this achievement possible.

Champaign's designation as a Certified Welcoming place by Welcoming America is a significant milestone for the city. It not only showcases its dedication to creating an inclusive community but also serves as an inspiration for other cities and communities to follow suit.

To learn more, click on this link: https://champaignil.gov/2024/01/11/chambana-proud-podcast/