Advocating for Immigrants in Maine
By Ange Ishimwe ‘25The Maine Immigrants’ Rights Coalition constitutes a statewide network comprising 93+ organizations that represent ethnic communities across the state. The organization's mission is to enhance the social, economic, and legal conditions of immigrants through advocacy, collaboration, and information sharing. Due to the recent increase in Maine’s asylum seeker population, MIRC has extended its support by providing cultural brokers, translators, housing, and cultural meals for these asylum seekers and other Maine immigrants.
Throughout my summer internship, I engaged in several projects that encompassed tasks ranging from submitting CDC referrals for partner organizations and individuals to collaborating with fellow interns and MIRC employees in the planning of events for new Mainers. The most notable event hosted by MIRC was the inaugural Maine Immigration Forum, attended by approximately 200 individuals, which aimed to celebrate and acknowledge immigrants’ presence and contributions to Maine.
Additionally, I had the opportunity to collaborate with a peer on the organization of a housing information session for asylum seekers. My responsibility included orchestrating a panel composed of diverse individuals from the housing sector. Despite having prior experience in event planning, I was pleasantly surprised to discover my affinity for organizing events tailored to different communities. Moreover, it was gratifying as I observed individuals interacting and forging connections with one another during these events.
Internship funded by the Tran Internship Fund.