Today on Citizenship Day, New American Economy recognized the City of Tulsa as one of this year’s “most improved cities overall” and “most improved in terms of policy” in its third annual NAE Cities Index, an index that tracks America’s 100 largest cities’ progress in their immigrant integration efforts.
Tulsa now ranks #58 overall, compared to last year’s #84 ranking.
“When immigrants from around the world choose Tulsa as their new home, we want to live up to all the sacrifices they make to come here,” Mayor G.T. Bynum said. “I’m thankful for our partnership with NAE as we seek to make Tulsa the best city it can be for our immigrant community, which is key to making our city a place of opportunity and growth for all.”
In this year’s Cities Index, Tulsa ranked #58 overall with a score of 2.83 out of 5 (up from 2.5 in 2019). This makes Tulsa one of this year’s most improved cities overall, and most improved in terms of policy. Tulsa received an NAE Badge of Distinction this year for its high performance, scoring a 4 (or 5 out of 5) for Government Leadership, Community, and Economic Prosperity.
Using the New Tulsans Initiative as a guide to welcome immigrants to Tulsa, the City has shown its commitment to becoming world-class city by holding monthly naturalization ceremonies, developing a citywide Language Access Policy, and translating various communications in regard to the COVID-19 pandemic. The City is also currently offering trainings to employers on how to recruit, retain and support immigrant talent as part of its Welcoming Week Celebration, which is happening this week.
Today, the City will welcome another 10 residents to Tulsa in its naturalization ceremony at City Hall. To date, the City has conducted nine naturalization ceremonies, welcoming more than 300 new immigrants to Tulsa – a feat never accomplished in Tulsa before.
In July, NAE recognized Tulsa for its use of immigrant-inclusive COVID-19 relief measures. You can read the story online.
About New American Economy
New American Economy (NAE) is a bipartisan research and advocacy organization founded to educate, empower and support policymakers, influencers, and citizens across the country that see the economic and social benefits of a smart approach to immigration reform. NAE has created a coalition of civic, business, and cultural leaders who span the political spectrum and represent all 50 states. Visit www.newamericaneconomy.org to learn more.
About New Tulsans Initiative
The New Tulsans Initiative recognizes the core belief that our city’s greatest asset is our people. The New Tulsans Welcoming Plan will allow Tulsa immigrants to bring their best to our city— providing fresh perspectives, starting businesses, and contributing to the vibrant diversity that makes our city prosper and ultimately a world class city. The Welcoming Plan is organized into five categories that are critical to building a welcoming Tulsa: Civic Engagement, Economic Development, Education, Health, and Public Safety. For more information, visit www.cityoftulsa.org/newtulsans.