Boston, MA.  The Massachusetts Immigrant Collaborative, recognizes the positive contributions that immigrant and refugee communities make to our Commonwealth and to our society at large. Therefore we commemorate this day and highlight the importance of respecting the human rights of all immigrants, regardless of their immigration status.

In December 2000, the U.N. General Assembly, taking into account the large and increasing number of migrants in the world, proclaimed the 18th of December as International Migrants Day. Migrants contribute their knowledge, networks, and skills to build stronger, more resilient communities. During the past year, migrants have been at the forefront of the fight against COVID-19.

“For Centro Presente it is an honor to celebrate this day and to be part of a platform like the Massachusetts Immigrant Collaborative, that allows us to be in solidarity with thousands of immigrants in these difficult times,” said Patricia Montes, executive director of Centro Presente. “At the same time that we celebrate immigrant contributions and resiliency, this day is also an opportunity to highlight the struggle to change the systems of oppression and discrimination that generates the inequity that impels so many to leave their homes.”

“The Rian Immigrant Center is honored to be part of the Massachusetts Immigrant Collaborative alongside our partner organizations,” said Ronnie Millar, executive director of the Center. “We have seen the resiliency of gifted and courageous migrants who have overcome so many challenges and who are contributing immensely to our community. We celebrate their contributions and stand in solidarity with them and the millions on International Migrants Day.”

“Celebrating Migrants Day is acknowledging their wonderful contribution in our society,” stated Dr. Geralde V. Gabeau, executive director of Immigrant Family Services Institute (IFSI-USA).

“The Brazilian Worker Center celebrates International Migrants Day and commends all those who left their homeland in hope of a better future overcoming challenges and standing strong helping their communities develop,” said Lenita Reason, executive director of the Brazilian Worker Center. “Migrants bring their skills, knowledge and experience to their communities and have helped the economy grow. The contributions of many migrants during the pandemic as frontline workers is immense, but the challenges many face, especially those without status cannot be forgotten. We stand in solidarity with our immigrants for their resiliency.”

“Agencia ALPHA celebrates all immigrants in the Commonwealth and beyond who have contributed so much to our society and have during the COVID pandemic been in the frontline working in restaurants, transportation, healthcare and hospitality to name a few,” stated Patricia Sobalvarro, executive director of Agencia ALPHA.  “Immigrants are resilient and the pandemic showcased their resolute nature and as part of the Massachusetts Immigrant Collaborative we were honored to assist those that in many instances are forgotten by society. Happy Migrants Day.”

Since its foundation in April 2020, the Massachusetts Immigrant Collaborative has supported over 85,000 immigrants with addressing their most critical needs such as rent, food, emergency cash assistance, and equitable access to vaccines. The 15 member organizations of the Massachusetts Immigrant Collaborative work together across the state to address immigrants’ immediate- and long-term needs.

Massachusetts Immigrant Collaborative Organizations:

• Agencia ALPHA
• Boston Chinatown Neighborhood Center
• Boston International Newcomers Academy
• Brazilian Worker Center
• Caribbean Youth Club
• Centro Comunitário de Trabajadores
• Centro Presente
• Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative
• ICNA Relief
• Immigrant Family Services Institute
• Metrowest Worker Center
• New North Citizens
• Pioneer Valley Workers Center
• Rian Immigrant Center
• Sociedad Latina

Contact: Luiza Souza, MIC Program Director (lsouza@riancenter.org or 508-560-5202)