Policy Resolution IAF-26-22

WHEREAS, the National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL) recognizes that Black immigrants from Africa, the Caribbean, Latin America, and other regions are among the fastest-growing immigrant populations in the United States, contributing significantly to the economic, cultural, and civic life of our nation;

WHEREAS, Black immigrants often face a unique intersection of challenges, including racial discrimination, immigration barriers, limited access to culturally competent services, and systemic inequities in employment, housing, healthcare, and education;

WHEREAS, data shows that while Black immigrants represent roughly 10% of the U.S. Black population, they experience disproportionately high rates of poverty, deportation, and immigration detention compared to other immigrant groups, according to the Pew Research Center;

WHEREAS, Black immigrants make substantial contributions to the U.S. economy, particularly through small business ownership, health care work, education, and essential labor sectors, yet remain underrepresented in federal and state-level immigrant inclusion and economic development programs;

WHEREAS, language access, legal assistance, and culturally responsive outreach are critical for ensuring that Black immigrant communities can fully participate in civic, social, and economic opportunities and are often inadequate for Black immigrants; and

WHEREAS, collaboration between Black immigrant advocacy organizations, historically Black institutions, and state policymakers can help address shared concerns including equitable access to justice, protection of family unity, and inclusion in public policy and funding decisions.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL) calls on state and federal governments to increase investment in programs that specifically support Black immigrants, including access to legal services, small business support, workforce development, healthcare, and education;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the NBCSL urges the inclusion of Black immigrant voices and organizations in state and national policy development related to immigration, civil rights, and economic opportunity;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the NBCSL supports the development of culturally responsive outreach and education initiatives to help integrate and uplift Black immigrant communities and unify all Black communities while preserving our cultural heritage and contributions; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States, the Vice President of the United States, members of the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate, and other federal and state government officials as appropriate.

• Resolution ID: IAF-26-22
• Sponsored by: Rep. Sonya Marie Harper (IL)
• Policy Committee: International Affairs Policy Committee