Immigrant Heritage Month

Boston is a city built by generations of immigrants, and this week the Council adopted a resolution recognizing June as Immigrant Heritage Month – a time to honor the people who continue to shape its future.

First established in 2014 by the I Stand With Immigrants / I Am An Immigrant initiative, Immigrant Heritage Month invites us to uplift immigrant voices, celebrate cultural heritage, and recognize the countless ways immigration enriches Boston’s neighborhoods, economy, and culture.

Immigrants make up over 28% of Boston’s population, with nearly 189,500 foreign-born residents calling the city home. One in ten Bostonians is a naturalized citizen, and nearly 30,000 more are eligible for citizenship. Immigrants play essential roles in every sector of Boston’s workforce – from healthcare and construction to education and entrepreneurship. In fact, immigrants own 28% of Boston’s businesses and contribute billions to the city’s economy and tax base.

Beyond economic impact, immigration fuels Boston’s diversity and creativity. From cuisine and music to language and literature, immigrants bring rich cultural traditions that strengthen community ties and broaden our collective identity.

The Council reaffirms its commitment to fostering a city where all residents – regardless of immigration status – are treated with dignity, protected from discrimination, and given opportunities to thrive.