NPNA’s team recently visited The Hispanic Interest Coalition of Alabama (HICA), a coalition member in Alabama, to connect with its staff and attend an important naturalization celebration in their community. HICA’s team has been working since 1999 to meet the needs of the Latino population in Birmingham, Homewood, and other rural regions of Shelby County and throughout the state. While providing support through citizenship and English language classes, access to legal services, and family programs, HICA is a catalyst for community economic development and a strong advocate for immigrant inclusion at the local and state level.
This September, HICA’s team met with Program and Training Manager Magaly Arteaga to review the successful first year of their two-year organizational development project, funded by a grant from USCIS through NPNA. This grant funding supports strategies to develop and increase their citizenship instruction and naturalization application services programs, and has been highly effective because of HICA’s dedication to community outreach and staff training.
HICA’s Naturalization Celebration on September 2nd brought together families, friends, state officials, and partnering organizations to recognize new Americans who had achieved their goal of becoming naturalized citizens. NPNA staff attended the event and shared in the celebration, and witnessed the far-reaching impact of community outreach carried out with intentionality and care.
“Federal funding plays a pivotal role in empowering new Americans, fueling our commitment to community growth, and fostering an inclusive society right here in Alabama,” states Carlos Aleman, CEO of HICA. “These resources not only uplift individuals and families but contribute substantially to the vibrant cultural and economic mosaic of our communities. As we celebrate the naturalization of 30 new Americans, we’re reminded of our collective purpose to create a united and prosperous future for all.”
CEO Carlos Aleman welcomed all to the Homewood City Council chambers for the ceremony, and all had the opportunity to register to vote at the event, with support from The Junior League of Birmingham. NPNA congratulates HICA on its diligent and long-standing work to advance opportunities for immigrants who have made the Deep South their home.
NPNA is a strong advocate at the national level for greater federal investment in USCIS grants, and agency funding. Since 2022, 9 NPNA members have received over $2.4 million in USCIS Citizenship grants.
