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VDSS Office of New Americans
REFUGEE AND IMMIGRANT SERVICES
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June is Immigrant Heritage Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the rich diversity, resilience, and countless contributions of immigrants throughout every corner of Virginia. Across the Commonwealth, over 1.16 million immigrants enrich our communities every day, making up about 13% of the state’s population and playing a crucial role in our economy, culture, and daily life.
In Northern Virginia, immigrants are the backbone of innovation and small business, with vibrant communities representing dozens of countries and languages. The Shenandoah Valley benefits from the hard work and entrepreneurial spirit of immigrants in agriculture, food services, and small business ownership, where they are vital to local industries and community life. In Roanoke, immigrants contribute significantly to the workforce, especially in health care, hospitality, and construction, bringing fresh energy and perspectives to the region’s growth. Richmond’s dynamic arts, culinary, and educational scenes are deeply enriched by the talents and traditions of its immigrant residents, who help make the city a welcoming, multicultural hub.
Statewide, immigrants are leaders in science, technology, health care, and education, and they own and operate a remarkable share of Virginia’s small businesses. Their economic impact is enormous, with billions in tax contributions and spending power that support local economies and public services. Immigrants also bring a wealth of cultural traditions, languages, and celebrations that make Virginia’s communities more vibrant and connected. This month, we honor the stories, achievements, and enduring spirit of immigrants across every region-and recognize that their contributions are essential to Virginia’s strength, prosperity, and future as a welcoming Commonwealth for all.
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On World Refugee Day, June 20th, ONA recognizes the remarkable journeys and new beginnings of refugees who now call Virginia home. Our community partners play a vital role in weaving together support, connection, and opportunity for those rebuilding their lives. By joining hands, we not only welcome newcomers, but also enrich our neighborhoods with new perspectives and shared hopes. Let’s celebrate this day by renewing our promise to stand with refugees and uplift their voices.
We thank our resettlement agency partners for their dedicated work supporting refugees across Virginia, including Commonwealth Catholic Charities, Catholic Charities Migration and Refugee Services, Church World Service, Ethiopian Community Development Council, International Rescue Committee, Dar Al-Hijrah Refugee Services, Lutheran Social Services, and REACT DC.
We invite you to explore and join World Refugee Day events happening in your area. These local celebrations are wonderful opportunities to connect, learn, and show support for our refugee neighbors. Check our Community Events section in this newsletter to find out how you can participate.
For those near the Washington, DC area, visit the Kennedy Center for a free concert and film screening! UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, in collaboration with the Kennedy Center, presents Sebastián Llosa—Peruvian singer-songwriter and UNHCR supporter. For World Refugee Day, Llosa dedicates this concert to the millions of people forced to flee war, violence, and persecution, and he highlights the need to continue support for refugees globally. Additionally, join for a free outdoor film screening of Belfast, a story of a family facing conflict and uncertainty, and their hope for a safer, brighter future.
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Multicultural Festival: Imagine 2025
In celebration of Immigrant Heritage Month and World Refugee Day, Richmond's Office of Immigrant and Refugee Engagement and ReEstablish Richmond are partnering to host this year's Multicultural Festival: Imagine 2025. This event celebrates Immigrant Heritage Month and World Refugee Day by bringing together people from diverse backgrounds and cultures to share traditions, stories, and experiences from around the world. This festival plays a key role in community integration by offering opportunities for cultural exchange, access to multilingual resources, and connections to local services, helping everyone feel welcome and supported. By fostering understanding and building relationships across different communities, the festival strengthens Richmond’s sense of belonging and unity. We encourage people from other regions to join this event and celebrate this vibrant day together! The festival will take place on Saturday, June 14, from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Dogwood Dell Amphitheater in Richmond.
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2025 Family Engagement Summit PEATC
We are excited to share the upcoming 2025 Family Engagement Summit, presented by PEATC in collaboration with the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE). This interactive, one-day event, “The Power of Partnerships: Unlocking Student Potential Through Connection and Systems of Support,” aims to foster meaningful collaboration among Virginia educators, families, and community partners. The summit will feature dynamic speakers who will offer practical, research-based strategies and showcase the transformative impact of strong partnerships. The event will take place on June 7, 2025, in Glen Allen and on August 9, 2025, in Harrisonburg. Registrants may attend only one location. For more information or to register, please visit the PEATC summit website.
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Virtual NAMICon 2025 Annual Conference
NAMICon 2025, the National Alliance on Mental Illness’s annual conference, will be held virtually from June 10 to 13. This event features sessions on mental health awareness, education, and advocacy, with multi-language translation and closed captioning available for all sessions. Registration is open until June 9.
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CONFERENCE
The New Economy Landscape Environment: Technology, Federal Shifts, Workforce Shakeups & AAPI Small Businesses Futures in VA
The Virginia Asian Advisory Board (VAAB) Business Committee is hosting an impactful and informative business conference on Monday, June 23, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. in McLean, VA. This event will address critical topics relevant to small business owners, members of the AAPI community, and anyone interested in today’s economic landscape. Highlights include discussions on the shifting dynamics of the economy, strategies for AAPI small businesses to thrive, and insights into upcoming changes in federal agencies and their impact on the workforce and business sectors. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with VAAB leadership and network with professionals who share a commitment to supporting the AAPI business community. Seating is limited, so early registration is encouraged to secure your spot. For Registration HERE
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Interpreter Training: Understanding Special Education (BASIC) | Comprensión de la Educación Especial (BASICO)
Are you a Spanish-speaking interpreter in the state of Virginia? Do you work in educational settings with Spanish-speaking families and help them overcome language barriers as they navigate the special education system?
If so, PEATC would like to invite you to a FREE four-hour live virtual workshop dedicated to training interpreters on the process and vocabulary of special education. (PRESENTED IN SPANISH).
This training will take place virtually on June 9 at 10 AM. For registration and more details about this training HERE. Available Spanish and English flyers.
| | Promoting your organization's services, educational webinars, or community events? We would love to help spread the word! Please reach out to liliana.penalver@dss.virginia.gov to share your initiatives and ensure that Virginians have access to valuable resources and events. Together, we can enhance awareness of resources and strengthen support for New Americans in Virginia! | | | Federal, State, and Local News | | |
POLICY UPDATES
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End to Temporary Protective Status for Afghanistan: TPS benefits will terminate on July 14, 2025. See USCIS for more details.
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REAL ID is required for flying starting on May 7, 2025, unless you have another federally accepted form of ID, such as a US passport. Note that a REAL ID is optional in Virginia. See DMV website for more information.
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Immigrants Wanted for VCU Research Study
VCU researchers are seeking successful immigrants to share their stories for an exciting research study exploring the secret ingredients of immigrant economic success in the USA. Participation involves a friendly 45–60-minute chat (via Zoom or in person), is completely confidential, and interpreters are available. Eligible participants are first-generation immigrants who moved to the U.S. after age 18, did not attend K-12 in the U.S., did not arrive on a student or employment/diplomatic visa, and have an income of $65,000 or higher. Participants will receive a $50 gift card. Those interested can email newamericans@vcu.edu, text (804) 250-1533, or fill out the form at bit.ly/immigrantsuccess. Download Flyer HERE.
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CCC Youth Innovation Projects
Commonwealth Catholic Charities is inviting youth ages 18 to 24 to participate in their Youth Innovation Project and upcoming Youth Listening Session. This is a valuable opportunity for young people who have experienced housing instability or homelessness to share their stories and insights, helping to shape future programs and resources. Participants will be compensated for their time and input. If you or someone you know is interested, please reach out to KeKe Cody at 804-833-3977 or Summer Pierce at 804-467-7289 for more information or to RSVP. Your voice can help make a difference in addressing youth housing challenges in our community. Registration form and CCC street flyer.
| | | IN-PERSON AND VIRTUAL TRAININGS / WORKSHOPS / SUMMIT AND CONFERENCES | |
Forced Labor (UFLPA) Supply Chain Visibility Awareness
OWIT - NY Chapter
June 3, 12 PM- Virtual
2025 Small Business Symposium
SBSD
June 3, 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM In person, Abingdon VA - flyer
Virginia Rural Health Clinic
VRHA
June 4 & 5, 8:30 to 5PM - In person
Info Session: Mental Health for Immigrant Children
enCircle
June 5, 12 PM - Virtual
PCC4 Refugees Conversations to Support Refugees
PCC4Refugees
June 5, 7:30 PM - Virtual
Introducing to Trauma and Trauma Informed Care
Greater Richmond Scan
June 5, 11 AM - Virtual
Planning for success: Are Immigration Legal Services the right fit for your organization?
CLINIC
June 5, 2 PM - Virtual
Foundations 2025: History of Asian American Identity
Asian American Justice + Innovation Lab (AAJIL)
June 7, 2:30 PM - Virtual
Virginia Association of free and charitable clinics Virtual Summit
VAFCC
June 9 to 15, Virtual
*Free and open to clinics, staff and volunteers. Register for the different virtual sessions.
Immigrant Youth: Intersection of Homelessness
V-Step
June 10, 12 PM - Virtual
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Cultural Competency in Public Health
HSPR
June 11, 11 AM - Virtual
Immigration Briefings
ILRC
June 11 and 25, 1 PM - Virtual
*Provide overview of new announcements and policies to keep everyone working on the field update and informed.
End Child Labor: Awareness, Action and Advocacy
Alliance to End Human Trafficking
June 12, 12 PM Virtual
All about Parole
Clinic
June 17, 2 PM - Virtual
Overcoming Adversity and Building Resilience
Greater Richmond Scan
June 17, 1 PM - Virtual
Counseling Muslim Clients
REACH
June 17, 12 PM - Virtual
Supporting Refugee and Immigrant Families Through Transitional Services
LEAD
June 18, 12 PM - Virtual
Creating and Welcoming Inclusion in Services
Rise Community Collaborate
June 24, 12 PM - Virtual
Rights, Advocacy and Immigration
The consortium
June 25, 4 PM - Virtual
Trauma-Informed Strategies
Greater Richmond Scan
June 26, 12 PM - Virtual
Exploring the "Big ideas" in Community Violence Prevention
HCGV
June 26, 7 PM - Virtual
Federal Focus on Housing
MHP
June 27, 11 AM - Virtual
6th National Immigration Summit
Children at Risk
Sep 25, (new date) 1 PM - Virtual
*For those who previously register in May 15, this event changes the date to Sep 25.
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USAHELLO's newly updated Multilingual Immigration Guide is now even easier to use, with better filtering, more resources, and translations in nine languages. This mobile-friendly guide offers up-to-date, plain-language information on immigration policies, legal status options, Know Your Rights, and finding local support, and is updated weekly to help immigrant communities stay safe and informed. You can also download the free USAHello FindHello app to discover local resources for immigrants and refugees, including legal assistance, housing, healthcare, education, job training, and more.
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| |  | Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC) offers a valuable guide: “Avoiding Fraud When Seeking Immigration Legal Services.” This resource helps individuals recognize scams, understand their rights, and find trustworthy legal assistance. It provides practical tips on identifying red flags, such as false promises or unqualified providers, and explains how to protect clients from common types of immigration fraud. Sharing this guide with your staff and clients can help ensure that community members receive safe, reliable, and honest support as they navigate the immigration process. Additionally, Informed Immigrant offers a comprehensive guide on how to find an immigration lawyer, including tips for preparing for consultations and understanding the difference between qualified legal providers and unlicensed consultants. The Virginia State Bar also provides guides in English and Spanish to connect low- and modest-income Virginians with free and affordable legal services across the state, including a lawyer referral service and information on pro-bono resources.
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During these uncertain times, it is especially important for refugees and immigrants to protect themselves from scams. The Federal Trade Commission offers a detailed handbook (20 languages) and multilingual resources to help newcomers recognize and avoid fraud, which you can find in their information for refugees and immigrants. For additional tips and videos on spotting scams and getting real help with immigration issues, visit the scams against immigrants section. To learn more about how to avoid immigration scams and get trustworthy assistance, including how to report fraud and find authorized legal support, explore this guide on avoiding immigration scams.
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Commonwealth Catholic Charities is hosting a Youth Listening Session on June 3, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. These sessions are specifically for youth aged 18-24 with lived experience of homelessness and/or housing instability. Their goal is to capture the youth voice related to their expertise and experience and then incorporate it into their local homeless services system. Youth will be PAID for participating. Youth can RSVP to attend HERE. Youth should fill out the form even if they cannot make it, as the organizers will follow up about other opportunities to participate. Find flyers HERE.
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ImmigrantBizHub is Immigrants Rising’s new mobile-first platform designed to support immigrant entrepreneurs with real-world experience, practical skills, and valuable connections-all on your own schedule. Drawing on over a decade of entrepreneurship programming, ImmigrantBizHub offers an easy way to learn the fundamentals of starting and running a business, including business structures, legal considerations, independent contracting, marketing, branding, and finance. The platform also helps you explore ways to monetize your skills and connect with potential customers, other entrepreneurs, and local support networks. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your business, ImmigrantBizHub provides tailored resources and a supportive community to help you succeed.
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The Hispanic/Latino Behavioral Health Center of Excellence has created a new guide in Spanish and English on the impact of social determinants of health like housing, work, and education on Hispanic, Latino, and immigrant communities. We encourage organizations and programs to download and share this important resource with your clients. Download the Spanish and English guides.
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Informed Immigrant has put together a helpful guide on the new federal registration requirement for certain non-citizens in the U.S., effective April 11, 2025. The guide explains who needs to register, what information is required, and how to protect your rights. We encourage organizations to review and share this resource to help keep your clients informed and prepared. For more details, visit the Informed Immigrant website.
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Click on each region for a listing of cultural festivals, mobile clinics, information sessions, job fairs, and other local events: | |
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