ARCHIVE - Immigrant Welcome Awards 2024

The City of Champaign held the Immigrant Welcome Awards ceremony on October 1, 2024, to recognize individuals and organizations contributing to immigrant support and leadership in the community. The event highlighted various awards including student leadership, business leadership, community impact, emerging leadership, immigrant leadership, and a distinguished service award honoring lifetime contributions. Key honorees included a University of Illinois student intern, a local family-owned bike repair business supporting affordable transportation, the Urbana Free Library for its inclusive programming, and leaders from immigrant advocacy organizations. The ceremony emphasized community collaboration, cultural celebration, and the importance of advocacy and support for immigrants, especially in the context of an election year. No procurement, contracting, or budget discussions were identified during the event.