A global pandemic, along with a summer of racial, economic, and political unrest, has highlighted the systemic barriers that keep opportunity out of reach for many Americans, including newcomers to this country. Since 2000, Upwardly Global has existed to tackle these hurdles and build a country where everyone can genuinely contribute and thrive. As the national nonprofit celebrates its 20th anniversary, it announces a virtual gala, “Building a Stronger America for All,” on November 12, presented in partnership with New American Economy. Michael Bloomberg, former mayor of New York City, will deliver the keynote address.
“For two decades, Upwardly Global has helped immigrant and refugee professionals contribute their skills to build a stronger and more diverse economy and society, because we believe that upward mobility should not be limited by color, ethnicity or the geography of one’s birth,” said Jina Krause-Vilmar, President & CEO of Upwardly Global. “Twenty years on, that mission is more urgent than ever –as we seek to reopen our economy in a more equitable way, we know that this same global diversity will help to solve the challenges that lay before us.”
“Immigrants have always been a crucial part of this country — and as we look to what it will take to beat COVID and collectively recover, we know that they are essential to our future,” said Jeremy Robbins, Executive Director of New American Economy. “Immigrants are on the frontlines of our COVID response, making significant shares of our healthcare workers, working in some of the riskiest jobs, and making the supplies we need to fight this virus. This event celebrates immigrants’ contributions — and redoubles our commitment to championing their potential.”
“New York is the greatest city in the world—and that’s in no small part because we are a city of immigrants,” said Michael R. Bloomberg. “When I was Mayor, I saw first-hand that welcoming people to our shores with open arms made our economy stronger—and our city more vibrant, more resilient, and more prosperous. The COVID-19 pandemic has been yet another reminder of this, as immigrants have courageously risked their lives on the front lines to keep the heart of our city beating. For two decades, Upwardly Global has been devoted to protecting and empowering the immigrants who make our city so special; and I am proud to partner with them on replicating and scaling their work across the country.”
In addition to Bloomberg, the virtual gala is headlined by Hikmet Ersek, CEO Western Union; and O.C. Tanner, a company focused on workplace inclusion. The event roster includes CNN Anchor Kate Bolduan and Comedian Negin Farsad, recognized as one of the 50 Funniest women by Huffington Post. More speakers will be confirmed.
Upwardly Global thanks event co-chairs Tony Goncalves, Chief Executive Officer, Otter Media; Suzette Brooks Masters, Center for Inclusion and Belonging; and Jeremy Robbins, New American Economy; along with board members Pranav Ramanathan, Managing Director of Coacharya & Ellipsis, Ganesh Betanabhatla, Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer at Ramas Capital Investment; and Kathy Taylor, Principal at Taylor Executive Search.
For event information, registration details, and information on how to support Upwardly Global’s work, visit https://www.upwardlyglobal.org/building-a-stronger-america-for-all-gala/.