Council Member Tiffany D. Thomas Hosts Inaugural Immigration Roundtable to Launch U.S. Africa Diaspora Summit

Houston City Council Member Tiffany D. Thomas, a fierce and visible advocate for the global African community, will host the inaugural Immigration Roundtable on May 21, 2025, at 6:00 PM at the Alief Neighborhood Center (11903 Bellaire Blvd., Houston, TX 77072). This critical discussion will serve as the kickoff event for the U.S. Africa Diaspora Summit occurring from May 23-25, culminating with the 8th Annual Africa Day celebration on May 30 at NRG, which will honor former Houston Mayor and Congressman Sylvester Turner. Council Member Thomas, known for her commitment to social justice and immigrant rights, is convening diverse community leaders to provide resources, share experiences, and strategize solutions to challenges confronting immigrant communities in Houston.

The Immigration Roundtable addresses an urgent and underrepresented topic: immigration issues affecting African diaspora communities. The discussion is timely, given the alarming recent policy shifts, including President Trump’s instruction to prioritize White South Afrikaner refugees, an issue which underscores the racial disparities and challenges Black immigrants face.

Highlighting the event will be keynote remarks from Judge Clarese Yates, the first Black woman appointed as a U. S. immigration judge, Ana Paula Do Nascimento, Consul General of Angola, and a panel discussion featuring immigration attorney Alexandria Okolie, Sharon Gray, and Gbenga Ogunjimi of the Nigeria Center whose esteemed presence underscores the significance and urgency of this dialogue.

Council Member Thomas emphasizes, “Immigration is more than policy—it’s about the lives, dignity, and rights of people. Through this Roundtable, we are taking a stand to ensure the African diaspora is not overlooked in critical immigration conversations. Our collective strength and advocacy will make lasting changes for generations to come.”

Community partners echoed the importance of the collaboration. Debo Folorunsho of SAiD Institute noted, “Our partnership exemplifies a united commitment to addressing systemic challenges faced by African immigrants. The roundtable creates a platform for advocacy, education, and meaningful action.”

Abby Kotun-Thomas, President of the Nigerian-American Multi-Cultural Council, added, “Long-term, this partnership will enhance our community’s visibility and political empowerment, ensuring African immigrant voices are central to immigration reform discussions.”

Dorothy Dupuy, Community Advisor of Houston Haitians United, highlighted, “This Immigration Roundtable is a crucial platform for Haitian immigrants and our broader community to voice their experiences and challenges. We are committed to working together to ensure immigrant rights and well-being are at the forefront of policy discussions and advocacy efforts.”

Key community partners participating include:

  • SAiD Institute
  • Houston Haitians United
  • Leonet Community of Greater Houston
  • Texas Africa Chamber of Commerce
  • Houston Caribbean Professional Association
  • Nigerian-American Multi-Cultural Council
  • Nigerian Center
  • Sister Cities
  • Alianza Latina Internacional Houston
  • Shrine of the Black Madonna

The Immigration Roundtable promises organic conversations and actionable outcomes, setting a meaningful agenda where leaders, residents and partners will delve deeper into issues facing African diaspora communities in Houston and nationwide.

RSVP HERE – WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU!

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