Saint Paul council adopts Welcoming Week resolution; Minneapolis and national partners praised

Council members unanimously adopted resolution 26-61483 recognizing Saint Paul’s participation in Welcoming Week 2026 and affirming the city’s commitment to immigrant and refugee communities. A council member introduced the resolution and turned the floor over to invited guests who spoke about regional collaboration.

Michelle Rivera, director of the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs for the City of Minneapolis and a Saint Paul resident, said the effort reflects cross-city partnerships: “Welcoming week ... brings communities together to strengthen connections across differences and affirm the contributions of immigrants, refugees, new Americans, and longtime residents.” Brianna Broberg, director of the Welcoming Network at Welcoming America, described Welcoming America as “a national nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that leads a movement of inclusive communities” and said the theme this year invites neighbors to “come together with curiosity and courage.”

Vice President Yang and other council members praised the resolution as consistent with the council’s equity and outreach goals. The resolution passed by voice vote with no opposition. Council materials note Saint Paul has celebrated Welcoming Week for seven years and that the St. Paul Immigrant and Refugee Program collaborated with Minneapolis and Welcoming America on a twin resolution.