Office of New Americans

What Is the Office of New Americans?

The Office of New Americans serves as the point of contact for state agencies, private sector organizations, and the public to advance the integration and inclusion of immigrants and refugees in Colorado communities.

In recognition of New Americans’ significant economic, cultural, and civic contributions to Colorado, on June 25, 2021, Governor Jared Polis signed HB 21-1150, creating an Office of New Americans in Colorado’s Department of Labor and Employment. The bill expands the work of the New American Integration Initiative, which launched in November of 2019. The bill also requires that the office implement a statewide strategy to facilitate economic stability and promote successful economic, social, linguistic, and cultural integration by investing in the success of immigrants in Colorado.

Who Are New Americans?

New Americans are Coloradans who arrived to the US as immigrants or their children. 

This population includes refugees, asylees, Special Immigrant Visa holders, victims of trafficking, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) recipients, and all other immigrants and aspiring citizens seeking opportunity, safety, and/or reunification with their families. 

New Americans are children, parents, teachers, students, patients, doctors, contractors, homeowners, entrepreneurs, family members, friends, coworkers, and neighbors. Learn more about Colorado's New Americans here.

What Is Integration?

Integration is a dynamic, two-way process in which newcomers and the receiving society work together to build secure, vibrant, cohesive communities (Source: Grantmakers Concerned with Immigrants and Refugees). 

Immigrant integration benefits us all, and an intentional, responsive process to engage and welcome transforms all community stakeholders, enriching our collective social, economic, and civic life. Effective integration is inclusive and fosters a sense of belonging in newcomers and receiving community members alike.