Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring June 2024 as "Immigrant Heritage Month" in the State of California.

The text of the proclamation states: "Generations of immigrants from across the globe have helped shape California’s history and progress, and are helping to define our future. During Immigrant Heritage Month, we honor and celebrate the foundational contributions of immigrants and their descendants, who bring innovation and wide-ranging contributions that shape and power California and our nation."

California is home to more immigrants than any other state in the country. According to the proclamation, half of California’s children have at least one immigrant parent. It highlights that nearly 11 million immigrants reside in California, contributing significantly to various sectors including the economy, universities, and communities.

"In California, we understand that our strength is in our diversity – an integral part of the identity and growth of our state as we know it," reads the proclamation. The document emphasizes that immigration has been crucial for economic growth and global competitiveness. Immigrants make up one-third of the state's workforce and account for 38.9% of entrepreneurs. In 2021, immigrant households contributed $46.5 billion in state and local taxes.

The proclamation also marks the 12th anniversary of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), noting its impact on enabling Dreamers to work, pursue education, build careers, and contribute to their communities. Governor Newsom calls on Congress to provide a meaningful pathway to citizenship for Dreamers amid ongoing challenges faced by DACA.

"Our state is proud to be a leader on equity and immigrant inclusion," says Newsom's statement. The governor underscores efforts to mitigate harms from outdated federal immigration policies while promoting economic well-being and immigrant talent within California.

The proclamation concludes with a call to celebrate immigrant communities' contributions: "This month, let us celebrate the ways that our state and nation are enriched by people from all different backgrounds and recommit to ensuring the promise of opportunity for all to thrive continues for generations to come."

Newsom signed off on this declaration with Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber attesting.