AILA Presents the Irish International Immigrant Center with the 2019 Diversity and Inclusion Award

CONTACTS:
George Tzamaras 202-507-7649 gtzamaras@aila.org	Belle Woods 202-507-7675 bwoods@aila.org

WASHINGTON, DC - The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) will recognize the Irish International Immigrant Center of Boston, MA, with the 2019 Diversity and Inclusion Award for outstanding efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion excellence in the immigration legal profession this week during AILA's Annual Conference in Orlando, FL.

The Irish International Immigrant Center empowers immigrants and refugees from more than 125 countries by providing the legal, wellness and educational support they need to build successful lives. Building on the Irish roots of welcoming others and social justice, they help newcomers find community and they stand up for immigration policies that are humane and just. America is a nation of immigrants, and despite the current political climate, they are proud to continue the tradition of welcoming immigrants to this country and working together to create a better future for all.

The IIIC was founded in 1989 to help immigrants make successful transitions to new lives in Greater Boston. They serve families from Haiti, Ireland, Central and South America, the Middle East, Africa, and beyond. Their attorneys, social workers, and teachers work alongside refugees fleeing persecution, young students who have lived in the US for most of their lives, homeless women and children, survivors of domestic abuse, and immigrant families who now call Boston their home.

IIIC dedicated staff and volunteers are passionate about creating a safe and vibrant welcome center, where families trust them and are able to avail of a range of free or low-cost programs. For example, a constituent seeking legal help gaining citizenship may also enroll in tutoring with IIIC's Citizenship instructors to better prepare for their naturalization exam. Anyone who is experiencing stress, trauma, fear, and anxiety is invited to meet with a licensed independent clinical social worker to problem-solve, to access further resources, and to receive counseling. By empowering families on a holistic level, they further our vision of a society where all are welcomed, valued, and enjoy equal opportunities and protections.

Cite as AILA Doc. No. 19062033.