A driving force behind our economic vitality

Newsletter | Mar 13, 2024

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it's a perfect opportunity to shine a spotlight on the remarkable contributions of immigrant women to our local communities and economy. From dynamic entrepreneurs to dedicated professionals and civic leaders, immigrant and refugee women enrich our community with their leadership, talent, resilience, and diverse perspectives.

Immigrant and refugee women play a pivotal role in driving economic growth, innovation, and civic engagement. Nationally, immigrant and refugee women earn more than $280 billion, which is more than the GDP of several large countries, including Greece, Peru, and New Zealand. From bustling family-owned businesses adding to the vibrancy of neighborhoods like Mi Cozumel restaurants to groundbreaking information technology companies like Liona Enterprises , immigrant women entrepreneurs are a driving force behind our economic vitality. Their ventures not only create jobs but also foster a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation that propels our community forward.

Moreover, immigrant women's contributions extend beyond the realm of economics. Their resilience, compassion, and unwavering determination inspire us all and are channeled into efforts to expand civic engagement opportunities. Consider, for example, organizations like Refuge Collaborative, that are committed to expanding educational and professional opportunities through peer-to-peer mentorship for refugee students in southwest Ohio and northern Kentucky.

Let's uplift immigrant women voices, celebrate their achievements, and continue working towards a future where every woman, regardless of background, has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Here's to the immigrant women who enrich our community every day – thank you for your resilience, your courage, and your unwavering commitment to building a brighter tomorrow for us all!

BRYAN WRIGHT

Executive Director

Cincinnati Compass

DATA FEATURE

Immigrant Demographics | 2021

According to the American Immigration Council's fact sheet "A Snapshot of Immigrant Women in the United States," there were 23.2 million female immigrants in the United States in 2021. Immigrant women accounted for more than half (51.3 percent) of the total foreign-born population and 14 percent of the entire female population in the United States.

To learn more about the economic impact and workforce participation of immigrant women, please read "A Snapshot of Immigrant Women in the United States" and "Highlighting the Economic Contributions of Immigrant Women" from New American Economy.

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHTS

Celebrating Women's History Month

As part of Women’s History Month, we wanted to highlight two women-led and women-focused organizations: one focusing on civic engagement and mentorship, the other on entrepreneurship and business development.

Kentucky African Women Association (KAWA)

Kentucky African Women Association (KAWA) is dedicated to empowering and uplifting African women through community support, education, and advocacy. At KAWA, women are provided a platform to connect, share resources, and celebrate their rich cultural heritage. From hosting networking events to offering educational workshops and social services, KAWA strives to address the unique needs and challenges faced by African women and children in the community. Individuals are invited to join in fostering a supportive environment where every woman can thrive and make meaningful contributions.

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Latina Entrepreneur Academy

The Latina Entrepreneur Academy (LEA), founded by Karla Boldery in 2017, was strategically crafted to empower both aspiring and established entrepreneurs. Whether individuals embarking on a new venture or seeking to expand an existing business, the program is tailored to furnish them with the essential knowledge and tools for success. With a dedicated mission centered around economic empowerment and community development, LEA is committed to providing indispensable knowledge and tools that enable entrepreneurs to flourish.

To date, the LEA has a strong alumni of 188 members with 100 existing businesses supported and another 37 new businesses created across Southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky. There is still time to join the next session – click the button below to RSVP for free.

RSVP FOR FREE

Opportunities

FEATURED OPPORTUNITY

The Clifton Mosque Food Pantry

Hours of Service | Fridays, 2 - 4 p.m.

Join Clifton Mosque in supporting refugees in our community! Their food pantry aids countless families, but they need your help with personal care items. Items like diapers, laundry detergent, toothpaste, and feminine hygiene products are in high demand. Your donation of deodorant, soap, or toilet paper can make a huge difference. Let's ensure everyone has essential personal care items. Visit the Clifton Mosque Resource page to contribute. Together, we can provide vital support to those in need. Thank you for your generosity and compassion.

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FEATURED OPPORTUNITY

Free ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Classes at the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library

Classes Ongoing | Virtual and In-Person Options Available

Looking to improve your English skills? The Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library offers free ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes! Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your language abilities, they have something for you. These classes provide a supportive environment for learning English, focusing on speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. Contact Brooke at Brooke.Meyer@chpl.org to meet for an assessment before the class which are open to Pre-Intermediate ESOL students.

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Events

FEATURED EVENT

EquaSion: Compassion through Action Dinner

April 17, 2024 | Reception: 6 p.m., Dinner & Program 7 p.m. | National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

This April, EquaSion will raise awareness and funds for its mission to engage people of all faiths and backgrounds in discovering their shared humanity and working together for an equitable and just society for everyone. At their inaugural city-wide event, EquaSion will honor and recognize four incredible couples who have made a significant impact on Greater Cincinnati through their civic leadership and their commitment to fostering inclusion, understanding, and connection.

The honorees include our board chair, Shakila T. Ahmad and her husband Dr. Masood Ahmad. Congratulations Shakila!

Registration closes Friday, April 5.

RSVP TODAY

FEATURED EVENT

Cincinnati Rhythm

September 13, 2024 | 6 - 10 p.m. | Cincinnati Museum Center

Cincinnati Rhythm is our highly anticipated, multicultural annual event. There’s something for everyone who attends including plenty of food, music, performances, and special awards. Every year we hold this special event for the immigrants and refugees who call our region home. The event is a celebration and an opportunity to connect with friends, old and new.

So save the dates – September 13, 2024 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Cincinnati Museum Center – and join us in celebrating the new Americans who contribute to a strong regional economy and a diverse, vibrant community.

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