Understanding USCIS Updates on VAWA: A Guide for Immigration Attorneys

The Gateways for Growth Challenge 2026: A New Chapter for Immigrant Inclusion

Update Celebrating Progress: The New Gateways for Growth Cohort On December 15, 2025, the American Immigration Council in collaboration with Welcoming America, announced the selection of a new cohort for the Gateways for Growth Challenge (G4G), highlighting the commitment of over ten local communities in their efforts to welcome and support immigrants. This initiative, now in its sixth round, continues to build on nearly a decade of measurable success in integrating diverse populations into the fabric of American life. Empowering Communities with Tailored Support Each awarded community will receive a comprehensive blend of customized research, technical assistance, and strategic planning to enhance their welcoming policies. Awardees such as Arlington County, Virginia, and St. Louis, Missouri exemplify the initiative’s diverse geographical commitment, which stretches across ten states, spanning both urban and rural settings. Building Bridges: More Than Just Policies As Rich André from the American Immigration Council stated, the G4G has helped communities quantify the impact of their immigrant populations and craft welcoming strategies. This is not just about policy development; it’s about creating environments where all members, particularly immigrants, are afforded opportunities to participate and thrive, fostering social cohesion amid diversity. Achievements and Future Opportunities Since its inception in 2016, more than 75 local governments have successfully engaged in the program to frame welcoming plans that cover aspects critical to immigrant integration, including language access and workforce development. Some communities have advanced to pass welcoming resolutions and achieve Certified Welcoming status, an accolade that recognizes their efforts towards inclusion. The ability to create a multi-faceted support system has proven essential in shifting public perceptions and elevating the contributions of immigrants to the local economy and community fabric. The Broader Implications for Immigration and Policy Reform The implications of G4G extend well beyond individual communities. By empowering local leaders to create impactful, evidence-based policies, G4G serves as a model for nationwide immigration strategies that align with broader economic goals. Immigrants are integral to businesses and local economies; therefore, their integration enhances the vibrancy and overall success of these areas. Ongoing Support and Resources The G4G initiative reinforces the importance of collaborative efforts amongst local governments, nonprofits, and chambers of commerce in uplifting immigrant populations. The resources available through G4G are not merely an award; they represent a commitment to building inclusive systems that recognize the valuable contributions of New Americans. It’s a call to action for local stakeholders to ensure no one is left behind. Looking Ahead: The Role of Civil Rights Attorneys For civil rights and immigration attorneys, this new phase of the G4G Challenge offers a profound opportunity to advocate for comprehensive immigrant rights and support local initiatives. The evolving landscape demands legal expertise to navigate the myriad of processes needed to ensure equitable treatment and access to resources for immigrant communities. This is not just another program but a sustained movement that highlights the articulation of values into actionable strategies—a foundation upon which communities can build a more inclusive future. Act Now: Engage with the Gateways for Growth Challenge As we reflect on the past accomplishments of the Gateways for Growth Challenge, it’s crucial for stakeholders to leverage the insights and achievements of the new cohort. Engage with local initiatives, support policy reforms that remove barriers, and help elevate the voices of immigrants in your community. Immigrant integration is not just beneficial—it’s an essential part of a thriving society. The responsibility lies with each of us to ensure that our towns and cities remain places of opportunity for all.