A Personal Journey Rooted in Hope

When I arrived in the United States as a young man, I brought with me only a suitcase, a dream, and an unwavering belief in hard work. Like so many immigrants before and after me, I saw America as a land of opportunity. But I also quickly learned that success isn’t handed to you—it’s built one job, one connection, and one act of courage at a time.

Today, as someone who has proudly served as mayor and as a business owner, I firmly believe that local governments play a critical role in helping immigrant families achieve the American Dream.

Local Governments: The First Touchpoint

While federal immigration policies dominate the headlines, the first real touchpoint many immigrant families have is with their local government. Whether it’s enrolling their kids in school, starting a small business, or accessing public services, cities are where dreams are either nurtured—or stalled. We must ensure that city halls are open, welcoming, and equipped to help newcomers integrate and thrive.

This includes offering translation services, community liaisons, and cultural training for city employees. These small steps build trust and make immigrants feel like they belong, not like they’re just visiting.

Creating Opportunity Through Economic Inclusion

One of the most powerful ways cities can support immigrant families is through inclusive economic development. Immigrants are more likely to start small businesses, and many bring entrepreneurial skills that just need the right environment to flourish.

Cities can help by simplifying the permitting process, creating small business support programs, and partnering with local banks or nonprofits to offer microloans. When you empower immigrant entrepreneurs, you don’t just create jobs—you create community leaders, mentors, and long-term residents who reinvest in the neighborhoods they serve.

Education: The Foundation of the Dream

Education has always been the cornerstone of the American Dream. For immigrant families, ensuring their children have access to quality public education is often the reason they came here in the first place. Cities must support schools that reflect the diversity of their populations and provide services such as ESL (English as a Second Language) and mentorship programs for immigrant youth.

When children feel supported in the classroom, their families feel supported in the community. And when cities back their school systems, they’re investing in their future workforce, leaders, and citizens.

Celebrating Culture to Build Community

Cultural exchange is not a threat to unity—it’s the key to it. Hosting multicultural festivals, public art initiatives, and community events that showcase the traditions of immigrant communities can foster deeper understanding and pride. It sends a clear message: You are part of our city’s story.

As mayor, I saw firsthand how cultural celebration could bring neighborhoods together. A city that honors where people come from also strengthens where it’s going.

Partnerships Make Progress Possible

City governments can’t do it alone. Partnering with community organizations, churches, cultural associations, and nonprofits can extend the reach and effectiveness of municipal programs. These groups often have direct relationships with immigrant communities and can serve as vital bridges between city services and the people who need them most.

By leveraging these partnerships, cities can deliver smarter, more targeted support—whether it’s food assistance, healthcare access, or job training.

Looking Ahead: A Call to Action

The American Dream is alive—but it needs caretakers. Cities must rise to the occasion and become intentional gateways for immigrant families. This means not just offering services, but actively creating pathways for inclusion, representation, and growth.

As someone who has lived this journey—from janitor to entrepreneur to mayor—I know that when cities open doors, people walk through them with courage, dignity, and purpose.

The future of our cities lies in our ability to embrace the richness of our people. Immigrant families bring strength, hope, and innovation. Let’s make sure our cities offer them the welcome and the tools they need to build a better tomorrow—for all of us.