The Frederick County Immigrant Affairs Commission (IAC) stands at a crucial juncture, awaiting reauthorization to continue its vital work in advocating for the immigrant community. Established in 2021 through the sponsorship of County Executive Fitzwater and subsequent approval by the County Council, the IAC has played a pivotal role in addressing the needs and concerns of immigrants in Frederick County.
The mission of the IAC is clear: to serve as an advisory body to County government, advocating for immigrant voices to be heard and understood while addressing issues important to all immigrants and co-creating solutions to facilitate civic engagement and equitable access to County resources. Since its inception, the IAC has been unwavering in its commitment to this mission, striving to uplift immigrant voices and advocate for their rights.
The need for the IAC’s continued existence is underscored by the demographic shifts occurring within Frederick County. Census data from 2020 reveals that foreign-born residents make up 18.2% of the total population, with Hispanic residents accounting for 11.9% and Asian residents for 6.3%. Nowhere is this growth more evident than in the county’s public schools, where half of the student population is non-white, with Hispanic/Latino students comprising 20.6% and Asian students 7.4%.
The work of the IAC spans various areas, including community outreach, access to resources, advocacy efforts, and data compilation. From hosting town hall meetings to gather input from immigrant communities to participating in advocacy efforts for healthcare access and diverse representation, the IAC has been proactive in addressing the multifaceted needs of immigrants.
One of the most notable achievements of the IAC has been its advocacy for an immigrant needs assessment study, aiming to better understand the challenges faced by immigrants and identify areas for improvement in service delivery. Additionally, the IAC’s involvement in community engagement events, informational sessions, and media outreach has helped foster dialogue and understanding between immigrant and non-immigrant communities.
As the deadline for reauthorization approaches, it is imperative that the County Council recognizes the invaluable contributions of the IAC and votes to continue its existence. Failure to do so would not only jeopardize the progress made in addressing immigrant issues but also send a message to the immigrant community that their voices are not valued. In a county as diverse and dynamic as Frederick, the presence of a dedicated body like the IAC is essential to ensuring that all residents have equitable access to resources and opportunities for civic engagement.
Reauthorizing the Frederick County Immigrant Affairs Commission is not just a matter of administrative procedure—it is a reaffirmation of our commitment to inclusivity, equity, and social justice. By supporting the reauthorization of the IAC, we affirm our belief in the importance of upholding immigrant voices and working towards a more equitable future for all residents of Frederick County.
