Reps. Torres & Clarke Introduce New Resolution to Designate September “African Immigrant Heritage Month”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Ritchie Torres (NY-15) and Rep. Yvette Clarke (NY-9) introduced a new resolution to designate the month of September as the “National African Immigrant Heritage Month.” This resolution honors the numerous contributions of Americans of African immigrant heritage that have enriched and advanced our nation.

As the United States addresses the repercussions of restrictive immigration policies from the previous administration, Congress is moving to highlight the impact and significant contributions that immigrants from all 54 African countries have made in the United States. September would provide a time to observe and celebrate these contributions that have strengthened and diversified American culture. It is estimated that more than 2 million immigrants from African countries live in the U.S.

“This resolution aims to elevate and celebrate the contributions of the African diaspora to our nation,” said Rep. Torres. “It would grant federal recognition to the enormous accomplishments of African immigrant communities while highlighting the need to fight disparities within the greater Black population in America. In partnership with Rep. Clarke, we are continuing the push within Congress to designate September to celebrate African immigrant heritage and acknowledge the need for more compassionate immigration policies.”

“From America’s founding and beyond, our story has been made possible only through the unique contributions of Americans of African heritage. The country we share has been built and enriched through African culture and conceptions and has reached otherwise impossible heights,” said Rep. Clarke. “This resolution is a necessary step towards recognizing America’s history, and honoring the African heritage intrinsically tied to our foundation. I am proud to co-lead this critical legislation and I look forward to its swift passage.” 

This resolution is endorsed by African Communities Together and Bronx African Advisory Council.

“As an organization led by and serving African immigrants, we celebrate the introduction of this resolution recognizing September as National African Immigrant Heritage month. From New York  to Houston, Minneapolis to Los Angeles, African immigrants have shaped, and continue to shape, our country’s culture, political spaces, and economies. We look forward to joining together, in the Septembers to come, to honor the amazing and lasting contributions of African immigrants and continue to support the safety, security, and success of our communities moving forward” said Diana A. Konaté, Policy Director, African Communities Together.