The Governing Body is asked to consider and approve a request from Conny Bogaard, Executive Director at Western Kansas Community Foundation, to allow the Mayor to proclaim the week of September 8-17, 2023 as Welcoming Week in Garden City, Kansas.

Welcoming America is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that leads a movement of inclusive communities becoming more prosperous by ensuring everyone belongs.

Welcoming America has pioneered a national endeavor known as Welcoming Week, designed to stimulate dialogues and cultivate connections among immigrants, refugees, and U.S.-born citizens. This initiative allocates a dedicated period for communities to congregate, commemorating the attributes that establish an environment of hospitality and inclusivity for all residents.

1. The Governing Body may approve allowing the Mayor to proclaim the week of September 8th-17th, 2023 as Welcoming Week in Garden City, Kansas.
2. The Governing Body may not approve allowing the Mayor to proclaim the week of September 8th-17th, 2023 as Welcoming Week in Garden City, Kansas.

Staff recommends the Governing Body approve allowing the Mayor to proclaim the week of September 8th-17th, 2023 as Welcoming Week in Garden City, Kansas.