Salt Lake City Receives Certified Welcoming Status

Salt Lake City has achieved 'Certified Welcoming' status from Welcoming America, making it the first city in Utah to earn this designation. Mayor Erin Mendenhall emphasized the city's commitment to inclusivity, highlighting initiatives such as the Know Your Neighbor program and efforts to connect immigrant and non-immigrant residents. This recognition reflects Salt Lake City's dedication to fostering diversity and creating pathways for all individuals to feel valued and included. In celebration of this achievement, Real Salt Lake is hosting events during Welcoming Week, including a soccer camp for refugee youth and a naturalization ceremony for new citizens, showcasing the contributions of immigrants to the community. The certification places Salt Lake City among a select group of 25 cities recognized for their inclusive practices, underscoring its competitive edge in local talent and workforce. Community leaders view this as a model for other cities aiming to enhance their welcoming environments.