image description

Governor Announces New Office of Immigrant Affairs

October 1st, 2021 by WCBC Radio

The Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives today announced the establishment of the Office of Immigrant Affairs to better promote English language programs, strengthen access to career options, and assist with paths to U.S. citizenship. The new office is statutorily required by SB 85, which passed in the 2021 legislative session.

“This new office is especially timely as Maryland continues to welcome more of our Afghan allies,” said Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives Director Steven McAdams. “We will be standing up service centers around the state, a multi-lingual hotline, and a website to provide greater access and combat hate crimes.”

Lorena Rivera, the current director of the Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives Commission on Hispanic Affairs, will serve as director of the Office of Immigrant Affairs. Rivera oversaw the 2020 U.S. Census effort in Maryland, including four state Area Census Offices in Hanover, Hagerstown, Baltimore City, and Towson. She has more than a decade of experience in community outreach and multicultural media and marketing outreach. 

“I am honored to be appointed as director for this new office, where we will work to increase access to resources that support transitioning immigrants into American society,” said Rivera. “We will connect state agencies, coordinate with our ethnic commissions, and fight for fair treatment of those who choose to call Maryland home.”