Immigrant integration in North Carolina: A Summit for Cities and Towns

This publication reviews activities and findings of "Immigrant Integration in North Carolina: A Summit for Cities and Towns," hosted by the Latino Migration Project at the University of North Carolina in September 2014. The paper describes effective immigrant integration practices and strategies implemented by four North Carolina's municipalities: Charlotte, Greensboro, High Point, and Greenville. Best practices include: engaging diverse immigrant and refugee groups in the integration planning process, recognizing their expertise on key questions, addressing common issues with other community groups in order to broaden the dialogue, and recruiting immigrant leaders to serve on municipal boards and commissions. The paper also summarizes the themes and "core values" that emerged from the workshops, including the importance of involving immigrants in all phases of planned projects, especially in leadership roles, and connecting to the experience of African American communities. The report also pinpoints some major challenges to the implementation of assessment-based recommendations, such as political resistance and funding limitations, and offers final recommendations from both speakers and participants.

Download it here or view it online.