International Migrant Month 2023

WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina is home to a diverse and vibrant community of residents hailing from all around the world, who have contributed immeasurably to the cultural, economic, and social fabric of our state; and

WHEREAS, international migration has long been a driving force behind the growth and development of North Carolina, enriching our communities with a wealth of talent, skills, traditions, and perspectives that have made us stronger, more resilient, and more inclusive; and

WHEREAS, December 18 marks the 109^th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, a day recognized by the United Nations to celebrate and acknowledge the contributions of migrants worldwide and to reaffirm our commitment to the rights, dignity, and well-being of all migrants, regardless of their origin; and

WHEREAS, International Migrant Month allows us to reflect on the different vulnerable people on the move, the strength and courage of those who have migrated, and the crucial need for global cooperation in creating inclusive policies that safeguard the rights and dignity of all migrants; and

WHEREAS, we believe that our nation’s strength lies in its diversity, and we are committed to fostering an environment of unity, understanding, and cooperation among all residents, regardless of their nationality, ethnicity, or race; and

WHEREAS, at the end of 2022, around 108.4 million people worldwide were forcibly displaced due to persecution, conflict, human rights violations, and events seriously disturbing public order in their home countries, an increase of 19 million people compared to the end of 2021; and

WHEREAS, as of 2020, 8 percent of the state of North Carolina’s overall population is foreign-born and has ranked 10^th in the nation for the number of refugees resettled; and

WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina encourages its people to recognize and celebrate the many contributions that migrants and refugees have made to our state, our country, and our world, and encourage people to use this month for reflection;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim December, 2023, as “INTERNATIONAL MIGRANT MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.