City of Durham and Durham County Achieve Certified Welcoming Designations by Welcoming America
DURHAM, N.C. - The City of Durham and Durham County are pleased to jointly announce their achievement as Certified Welcoming places — the City of Durham at the 2-star level and Durham County at the 1-star level. Both designations were achieved through a shared process led by Durham's City/County Immigrant and Refugee Affairs Coordinator Kokou Nayo, reflecting the interconnected nature of welcoming work across both jurisdictions.
“Durham has always been shaped by the people who call our city home, and our immigrant and refugee neighbors are an essential part of that story. Becoming a Certified Welcoming place is more than a designation — it is a reflection of who we are and the values we strive to uphold,” said Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams. “It affirms our commitment to building a Durham where every resident, regardless of where they come from, feels seen, valued, and a true sense of belonging.”
“Durham County has always been a place where people come to build a life, and this designation confirms that our policies and programs reflect that reality. What makes this achievement unique is that the City and County pursued this designation together, through a single coordinator who serves residents on both sides of the jurisdictional line. Immigrants and refugees do not see local government as separate agencies; they see it as one community. This certification is a milestone, not a finish line, and Durham County is committed to building on it so that everyone who lives, works, and visits here knows they belong,” said Dr. Mike Lee, Chair of the Durham County Board of Commissioners.
Certified Welcoming is a formal designation by Welcoming America for cities and counties that have created policies and programs reflecting their values and commitment to immigrant inclusion and belonging. Since its launch in 2017, Certified Welcoming and its operating framework, the Welcoming Standard, have provided a roadmap for local governments seeking to build truly welcoming communities, with a new star designation system added in 2023.
"When a city and county announce together, it means the commitment extends beyond any single jurisdiction or administration. Durham has built something that crosses those lines — shared infrastructure, shared accountability, and shared leadership in supporting all residents. We're proud to recognize both the City and County of Durham as Certified Welcoming communities," said Rachel Perić, Executive Director of Welcoming America.
The City of Durham and Durham County share a City/County Immigrant and Refugee Affairs Coordinator — a position that bridges both local governments and serves as a central hub for advancing immigrant inclusion across city and county agencies, community organizations, and immigrant residents. The decision to pursue Certified Welcoming designation simultaneously reflects Durham's commitment to welcoming work that crosses jurisdictional lines.
Among the highlights recognized in Durham's certifications:
The Durham Community Safety Department's HEART Program provides community-centered alternatives to policing and the criminal legal system, extending public safety beyond traditional law enforcement approaches.
The Durham Police Department's participation in the Faith Action ID program, a community-led initiative, ensures that photo identification is not a barrier for anyone — including immigrants — when accessing city services.
The Durham Cultural Roadmap is developing a new cultural plan that is accessible and reflective of the full diversity of the city, with language access policies built in from the start.
The Durham Technical Community College Center for the Global Learner supports immigrant and refugee residents in obtaining skills for employment and academic degrees, regardless of immigration status.
The Refugee and Immigrant Service Providers Group, convened by the City/County Coordinator, connects stakeholders and creates communication channels between immigrant communities and local government across both jurisdictions.
“As Durham celebrates earning Welcoming Certification, we recognize and commend the extensive collaboration between the City, Durham County, and the many community partners who make belonging possible every day,” said Durham City/County Immigrant & Refugee Affairs Coordinator Kokou Nayo. “In my role as Immigrant & Refugee Affairs Coordinator, I am honored to work alongside organizations across our region that are dedicated to ensuring every newcomer has the opportunity to thrive. I am also deeply grateful for the collective leadership that contributed to achieving this significant milestone.”
About the City of Durham
The City of Durham works to ensure all residents can access and participate in civic life through programs that strengthen language access, expand community-centered public safety, and build trust with immigrant and refugee communities. Through initiatives like HEART, the Faith Action ID partnership, and the Durham Cultural Roadmap, the City integrates inclusion and belonging into how services are designed and delivered. Guided by collaboration with community partners and Durham County, the City of Durham is committed to creating a welcoming community where everyone can contribute and thrive.
About Durham County
Durham County Government leads the way in fostering an innovative and inclusive community that benefits businesses and residents across our urban, suburban, and rural areas. Our growing population reflects a region that attracts people from all walks of life. With an understanding of our community’s unique makeup, Durham County Government delivers a wide range of services to everyone who lives, works, and visits here.
About Certified Welcoming
Certified Welcoming is a formal designation for local governments that have created policies and programs reflecting their values and commitment to immigrant inclusion. This program assesses local governments on their efforts to include and welcome immigrants in all areas of civic, social, and economic life. With a Certified Welcoming designation, communities distinguish their local efforts, build a competitive advantage, and gain access to opportunities to share their welcoming practices on a regional, national, and global stage.
About Welcoming America
Welcoming America is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that leads a movement of inclusive communities becoming more prosperous by ensuring everyone belongs. We believe that all people, including immigrants, are valued contributors and vital to the success of our communities and shared future. Learn more at welcomingamerica.org.