(DENVER, CO) - Governor Jared Polis has officially proclaimed June 2026 Immigrant Heritage Month. The Governor's proclamation highlights that one in nine Coloradans is an immigrant, and one in eight workers is foreign-born, demonstrating their essential role in meeting critical labor demands. Colorado's immigrants contribute an estimated $9.5 billion in taxes annually. These economic figures reflect the profound impact of New Americans who contribute to communities statewide, from teachers and first responders to entrepreneurs and artists, continuously strengthening the vitality of Colorado's economy, culture, and communities.

"During National Immigrant Heritage Month, we celebrate and recognize the incredible strength, talent, contributions, and resilience of New Americans and recognize the immigrant roots shared by so many Coloradans," said Dee Daniels Scriven, Director of the Office of New Americans. "Throughout Colorado's 150-year history, immigrants are, and have always been, foundational to our success, contributing to our economy, shaping culture, and becoming an integral part of communities across Colorado."

Housed within the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE), the mission of Colorado's Office of New Americans (ONA) is to facilitate the integration and inclusion of New Americans into Colorado's economic, civic, and social life. ONA partners with immigrant-serving organizations statewide that advance this mission, assisting New Americans and creating a more vibrant, prosperous, and inclusive Colorado.

On the Western Slope, the Hispanic Affairs Project (HAP) provides direct assistance, leads community outreach and education, and engages in advocacy to support a thriving community. HAP was formed in 2006 by immigrant leaders from Grand Junction, Delta, Olathe, Montrose, Gunnison, and Hotchkiss, and is a testament to the ways that immigrant leaders actively contribute to the communities of which they are a part.

Reflecting on HAP's impact in the community, Community Relations and Development Director Karen Sherman Perez shared, "a highlight for me is to go to naturalization ceremonies and witness that act of inclusion and belonging." HAP's work, and the work of many organizations statewide, embodies the value of Immigrant Heritage Month, honoring the cultures and heritage of all Coloradans, while collaboratively building a shared future.

"The unprecedented increase in community support for our work reflects deep support for the diverse communities in Colorado," said RMIAN's Executive Director, Mekela Goehring. "This immense solidarity and welcome is a powerful testament to the incredible strength, talent, and resilience of the immigrant community."

Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network (RMIAN) provides free immigration legal services to children and families in Colorado, as well as individuals in immigration detention. RMIAN provides legal representation, education about rights, and works to create a more dignified and humane immigration system. In the last year and a half, RMIAN has welcomed many new volunteers from the legal and medical fields, and from the broader public as well.

The stories above, and countless others, illuminate the contributions of Colorado's immigrants to our state and reaffirm the values that have always defined Colorado: a spirit of hard work, a commitment to one another, and the belief that Colorado is at its best when everyone has the chance to contribute.

About the Office of New Americans
Housed within the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE), the Office of New Americans (ONA) serves as the point of contact for state agencies, private sector organizations, and the public to advance the integration and inclusion of New Americans in Colorado communities. ONA's mission is to facilitate the integration and inclusion of New Americans into Colorado's civic, economic, and social life. To learn more about ONA, including their programs and services, New American data, and more, please visit: ona.colorado.gov.

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