Immigrant families in the USA play a crucial role in enhancing social integration for their children through active participation in local government. Inclusion of immigrant families in decision-making processes promotes a sense of belonging, fosters cultural exchange, and ensures that policies and programs are responsive to the diverse needs of the community.

The first and most crucial way that immigrant families can participate in their local government is through school committees. Parents should seek information about school committees and how to get involved as early as possible. They can start by volunteering for events and activities and engaging with the school administration to learn about what goes on in the committees. This is important not only for the child's education but also for the social integration for the parents. Parents involvement ensures that they advocate for their children's needs and ensure that their perspectives are heard and included in decisions made regarding allocation of resources. Additionally, involvement in campaigns helps families socialize with other community members and be part of the solutions for their school community.

Worcester resident Jermoh Kamara is an example of a bold immigrant who is making a difference as a School Committee member in Worcester Massachusetts. She was born in Liberia and immigrated to the US at eleven. She attended Worcester Public Schools before proceeding for her graduate and post-graduate studies in various institutions. She later came back to Worcester and wanted to make a difference in the school system where she grew up. Jermoh was elected as an At-Large School Committee member in 2021. She is up for re-election in the upcoming Municipal elections in November 2023 this time running for Worcester School Committee District C. Jermoh believes that when underrepresented students have access to opportunities like she had, they too can succeed in ventures that they put their mind into and become positive contributing members of the community. Jermoh brings a lived experience perspective to the School Committee and has a 5-point plan to drive her agenda for the next 2 years and beyond.

Another way immigrant families can participate in local government is by attending town hall meetings and community forums. These platforms provide an opportunity for parents to voice their concerns, share their experiences, and propose solutions. By actively engaging with local officials and policymakers, immigrant families can influence decision-making processes and advocate for policies that address their unique challenges.

For example, the city of New York has implemented the Participatory Budgeting program, which allows residents, including immigrant families, to directly decide how to allocate a portion of the city's budget. This initiative not only empowers immigrant families to have a say in local governance but also encourages their active involvement in shaping the community's future.

Another avenue for immigrant families to participate in local government is through advisory boards and commissions. These bodies are often established to provide input on specific issues, such as education, housing, or cultural affairs. By serving on these boards, immigrant parents can bring their perspectives and expertise to the table, ensuring that policies and programs are inclusive and responsive to the needs of their children.

For instance, in the city of San Francisco, the Immigrant Rights Commission represents the interests of immigrant communities and advises the local government on policies related to immigration, language access, and integration. Through the commission, immigrant families have a direct channel to influence decision-making processes and advocate for policies that promote social integration and support their children's well-being.

Furthermore, local government can facilitate the participation of immigrant families by providing language access services. Translation and interpretation services during public meetings, the availability of multilingual materials, and culturally sensitive outreach efforts can bridge the communication gap and ensure that immigrant families can fully engage in the decision-making process.

References:

1. Run for Something - Meet the Candidates. Retrieved from https://directory.runforsomething.net/candidate/1966/kamara-jermoh
2. New York City Council. (n.d.). Participatory Budgeting. Retrieved from https://council.nyc.gov/pb/
3. San Francisco Immigrant Rights Commission. (n.d.). About Us. Retrieved from https://sf.gov/reports/april-2023/san-francisco-all-immigrant-rights-commission-report-2023

In conclusion, the active participation of immigrant families in local government is vital for enhancing social integration for their children. By attending community forums, serving on advisory boards, and advocating for inclusive policies, immigrant families can shape their communities, promote cultural exchange, and ensure that the needs of their children are met. Local governments can support this participation by providing language access services and creating platforms that empower immigrant families to have a voice in decision-making processes.

www.watotopoa.org