Legislature Chairwoman Presents Gold Seal to New Americans Forum in Honor of the 25th Anniversary of World Refugee Day
SYRACUSE, N.Y. Onondaga County Legislature Chairwoman Nicole Watts honored the New Americans Forum (NAF) with a Gold Seal, the Legislature’s highest honor, in recognition of its leadership, community impact, and contributions to Syracuse’s immigrant and refugee communities. The recognition comes on this year’s 25th Anniversary of World Refugee Day.
World Refugee Day, designated by the United Nations in 2001, commemorates the resilience and cultural richness that refugees bring to communities across the globe. This year’s milestone anniversary marks a quarter century of international observance and underscores the continued need for active support for displaced families and individuals. As federal immigration regulations continue to shift, organizations like the New Americans Forum play an essential role in helping New Americans navigate change, access resources, and build strong connections within the community.
“The Legislature Gold Seal reflects our gratitude for New American Forum’s efforts to build a more inclusive, connected Onondaga County,” said Chairwoman Watts. “Their leadership reminds us that diversity and our shared respect for each other’s humanity is one of Central New York’s greatest strengths.”
The New Americans Forum brings together immigrants and refugees to foster collaboration, civic engagement, and cross-cultural understanding. Through community driven discussions, partnerships with local organizations and service providers, the group also provides ongoing advocacy and identifies needs for the region’s increasingly diverse population.
NAF’s central role in hosting Syracuse’s annual World Refugee Day Festival has also been impacted by federal immigration enforcement and concerns. The organization will not host a festival this year but will recognize the 25th anniversary of World Refugee Day with a flag raising ceremony on Friday, June 26 at 11:30 a.m. beginning at the Onondaga County Courthouse steps and walking to City Hall steps for a ceremony.
Watch the presentation of the Legislative Gold Seal on youtube.com/@onondagacountylegislature beginning at 3:30s.
For more information on World Refugee Day Flag Raising, please contact the New Americans Forum at wrldrefugee@gmail.com.