June 1, 2026
Don’t just get involved. Fight for your seat at the table. Better yet, fight for a seat at the head of the table. — Barack Obama
E pluribus unum.
It’s Latin for “Out of many, one.” This was the original motto of the United States, adopted nearly 250 years ago as we brought together disparate states into one republic. When my family fled our home in Sierra Leone and came to the United States, people called me the “American Dream Kid” because even then, I believed in the principles of democracy and the opportunities this country offers. I still believe in that dream today.
Like so many of our families, mine came to this country in pursuit of what could be — what can be. Out of many, we came here to help build this nation. That dream, that conviction, is why my colleagues at New American Leaders and I are committed to building a movement that turns immigrant experience into political power.
June may be recognized as Immigrant Heritage Month, but for those of us at New American Leaders, it’s every day. Every time a New American steps into leadership, speaks up for their community, and helps build the American Dream themselves, it’s a moment worth celebrating. Earlier this month, we honored some of the New Americans leading that work at our New American Hero Awards. Each year, I’m inspired by the leaders, supporters, and good people who join us in building a more inclusive democracy, and I’m grateful. I’m grateful we can come together over good food to celebrate the people making a difference. I’m also cautiously optimistic about what’s ahead.
This year’s Immigrant Heritage Month arrives at a moment when people across the country are asking hard questions about what American democracy means and who gets to shape it. The United States is also marking 250 years since its founding — a milestone that demands an honest look at the promises this country has kept, and the ones it still owes. We can’t answer those questions without immigrant voices at the table.
Immigrants have always been part of America’s origin story, and we deserve a role at that table — not as guests, but as leaders. That belief is the reason New American Leaders exists. For the last 16 years, we’ve trained first- and second-generation Americans to run for office, lead organizations, and shape the policies that govern their own communities. Our training program alumni now sit on city councils, in state legislatures, and on community boards across the country. Each one proves the same point: representation changes outcomes. When New Americans lead, policy shifts. Leaders understand their communities instead of simply speaking for them. Democracy becomes more honest about who actually makes up this country.
So this Immigrant Heritage Month, I’m thinking of my parents, who brought us to this country with hope and the dream of more opportunities for their children. I’m thinking of every local organizer, NAL training alum, and Elected and Appointed Officials Network member who decided their story was worth representing in public life — and of the work still ahead of us. We need more New Americans stepping into leadership. And we need the people, systems, and financial support to help make that happen.
So, alongside honoring, uplifting, and celebrating the New Americans building a more inclusive democracy this Immigrant Heritage Month, I invite you to take action right now:
- Donate to support this work. Every dollar helps New American Leaders train more New Americans for leadership.
- Connect us with friends in philanthropy. If you know funders, donors, or philanthropic partners who might support New American leadership, we’d be grateful for a warm introduction.
- Stay connected. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, X, LinkedIn and Bluesky to keep up with the work your support makes possible.
- Refer someone for training. If you know a candidate, community leader, advocate, or emerging leader who’d benefit from our programs, we’d welcome the introduction.
Because the next 250 years must include all of us — and we’re grateful for your support.
Out of many, one.
Happy Immigrant Heritage Month and Happy Pride!
With gratitude and resolve,
Ghida Dagher
CEO & President, New American Leaders