PHILADELPHIA – Today, Mayor Jim Kenney joined the honorable John R. Padova, Senior U.S. District Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, and more than 50 immigrants from across the globe at the National Constitution Center for a special naturalization ceremony as part of the city’s Welcoming Week celebration.
At the event, Mayor Kenney shared the findings of the first annual New American Economy (NAE) Cities Index, a new national assessment of local immigrant integration policies and socioeconomic outcomes. NAE surveyed the top 100 cities and measured how well they were able to integrate immigrants—Philadelphia ranked #6 overall out of the top 100 cities surveyed.
“On Constitution Day, we’re proud to recognize the thousands of immigrants who have chosen to make Philadelphia their home,” said Mayor Jim Kenney. “The results of the NAE Cities Index show that new citizens and all immigrants are vital to our shared prosperity, and help make our city a vibrant place where all residents can succeed.”
The NAE Cities Index examines 31 different policies and practices, as well as 20 different socioeconomic outcomes, to assess cities on their work to integrate newcomers. Assessment categories include Government Leadership, Economic Empowerment, Inclusivity, Community, and Legal Support, as well as Job Opportunities, Economic Prosperity, Livability and Civic Participation.
The City earned perfect scores on Government Leadership and Economic Empowerment, and 4 out of 5 on Community and Legal Support. The City ranked 8th overall in immigration policy. The policy score speaks to the work the Office of Immigrant Affairs has done to facilitate the successful inclusion of immigrants into the civic, economic, and cultural life of the city.
“In a time of uncertainty for many immigrants, it is now more important than ever to embrace our neighbors with open arms,” said Miriam Enriquez, Executive Director for the City’s Office of Immigrant Affairs. “Most immigrants come to the United States and Philadelphia in search of better employment opportunities, a greater degree of freedom, an escape from political oppression, and the chance for a better life for themselves and their family. Under similar circumstances, any one of us would do the same and hope to be met with understanding and compassion. Ensuring that Philadelphia continues to fight for policies that support our immigrant communities is both the right thing to do and the smart thing to do. We are strongest when all residents, especially our newest Philadelphians, have the ability to thrive.”
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About New American Economy
New American Economy (NAE) brings together more than 500 Republican, Democratic and Independent mayors and business leaders who support immigration reforms that will help create jobs for Americans today. NAE’s State and Local Initiatives produces original research and works with local leaders to highlight the economic contributions of immigrants and facilitate immigrant integration. Learn more at newamericaneconomy.org.