From the Desk of the County Manager, August 13, 2026
Greetings, Durham!
Every September, communities across the country pause to celebrate something simple but powerful: the idea that we are stronger when everyone feels they belong. Welcoming Week is a national initiative that highlights the efforts of local communities working to foster greater understanding, connection, and civic engagement among all residents, longtime Durham natives and newcomers alike. It’s a chance to recognize the diverse experiences that enrich our shared community, and Durham County is proud to take part.
This year’s celebration carries extra meaning here at home. U.S. Census data shows that 15.4% of Durham County’s population is foreign-born, compared to 13.8% nationally. That’s a meaningful share of our neighbors, coworkers, students, and small business owners who have chosen Durham as their home. Their presence is part of what makes our county the vibrant place it is, and it reminds us of the value of inclusive community efforts that help every resident, no matter their background or journey, feel a sense of belonging and participate fully in public life. Supporting new residents in building connections and opportunities strengthens trust and shared values across our entire community, helping Durham remain a place rooted in a shared sense of belonging.
A County-Wide Commitment
On Monday, August 10, 2026, the Durham Board of County Commissioners recognized Welcoming Week, which will be commemorated September 10-19, 2026. The acknowledgment highlighted Durham’s commitment to fostering belonging, civic participation, and opportunity for all residents, including our new neighbors. The proclamation, signed by Vice Chair Nida Allam, officially designates September 10-19, 2026, as Welcoming Week in Durham County. It was presented to Kokou Nayo, City/County Immigrant and Refugee Affairs Coordinator.
Supporting Our New Neighbors, Strengthening Durham
Nayo’s role sits within the New American Affairs program, administered through the Durham County Center of N.C. Cooperative Extension. The office supports and empowers Durham’s immigrant and refugee communities so they can successfully integrate into civic, economic, and cultural life, focusing on civic participation, economic advancement, and cultural inclusion. That work draws on deep expertise in policy, advocacy, and coalition-building, connecting new residents with the resources and relationships that help them put down roots here. It’s work grounded in the belief that when all people build connections and find opportunity here, all of Durham benefits from a more cohesive, resilient community.
Upon accepting the proclamation, Nayo reflected on what Welcoming Week means for the county he serves and noted a new recognition for our community.
“Certified Welcoming is not the same as being a sanctuary city; it is a rigorous, nationally recognized standard that measures how well a community creates programs and policies that foster meaningful inclusion and a true sense of home for all,” said Nayo. “By achieving this certification, Durham County is affirming that welcoming is not just something we say, it’s something we do, together.”
“Durham’s New Americans bring extraordinary talent, resilience, and heart to our county. Our responsibility is to ensure the systems around them honor that hope with real welcome and real action. Because when we invest in our immigrant and refugee neighbors, we’re not only uplifting individual families, we’re strengthening the future of Durham itself.”,” said Nayo.
Getting Involved
Throughout Welcoming Week, September 10-19, residents are encouraged to take part in activities celebrating connection and community spirit, activities that promote mutual respect, civic participation, and the shared goal of making Durham a place where every member of our community has the opportunity to thrive and contribute. To learn more about the New American Affairs program and how it supports Durham’s immigrant and refugee residents, visit the office’s page on dconc.gov. Most recently, the County celebrated Durham Refugee Day with a month-long series of film screenings that showcased the challenges refugees face around the world.
As we mark this year’s Welcoming Week, I’m grateful for the work Nayo and so many community partners throughout our city and county do year-round to make sure Durham is a place where all people feel like they belong and nurture a community where everyone feels at home.
Until next week,
Claudia Hager
Durham County Manager