Belonging Starts With Us
In today’s chaotic and divisive political climate, many immigrant families in our community are living with heightened anxiety and uncertainty. At Open Heartland, we believe that now—more than ever—is the time for neighbors to stand beside one another.
If you’re wondering how to support immigrant families in meaningful ways, here are some powerful steps you can take:
1. Show Up Locally
Volunteer with us. Attend community gatherings. Offer your time and presence. There’s power in simply showing up and saying, “You matter. You belong.”
2. Use Your Voice
Speak up when you hear harmful rhetoric or misinformation. Share facts. Share stories. Help create a climate where dignity and truth rise above fear.
3. Stay Informed—Then Share What You Learn
Understanding immigration issues—especially here in Iowa—is a vital first step. Pass that knowledge along to friends and family. Change starts in everyday conversations.
For accurate immigration updates follow The Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice https://www.iowammj.org/
4. Lend a Hand
Whether it’s driving someone to an appointment, helping fill out forms, or explaining how school registration works—small gestures can remove big barriers.
5. Support Immigrant-Owned Businesses
Every dollar spent is a vote for the kind of community we want to live in. Let’s build each other up. Check out Open Heartland’s Immigrant-Owned Business Board next time you drop by!
6. Join Public Demonstrations
Peaceful protests and marches are powerful tools for showing solidarity, demanding justice, and raising public awareness. When immigrant rights are under threat, your presence matters.
7. Vote with Empathy
We won’t tell you how to vote, but we invite you to vote with compassion, justice, and inclusion in mind.
8. Be a Safe Space
Sometimes, support looks like simply being someone who listens, welcomes, and doesn’t judge. That’s how we build trust—and healing begins with trust.
At Open Heartland, we see every day how one person’s actions can change lives.
Thank you for standing with us and making a real difference.