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City leaders, partners explain what Indianapolis’ 1‑star Welcoming City designation means
Summary
City and community leaders say the 1‑star Welcoming City designation from Welcoming America signals visible steps—language access, cultural celebrations and partnering institutions—but needs sustained policy changes, representation and workforce pathways to advance.
Sydney Rodhimel, host of the Welcome City vodcast, opened the episode by noting Indianapolis was designated a 1‑star Welcoming City by Welcoming America as of July 2025 and asked guests what the designation means in practice.
Gurinder Kaur, CEO of the Immigrant Welcome Center, said the designation is a signal of openness and tangible supports: "It means something that says to you that you're welcomed here. It says that I'm going to open my arms and say hello to you." Kaur pointed to multilingual signage at the airport and on roadways and local international marketplaces as examples of everyday signals of inclusion.
Ruth Morales, director of international Latino affairs for the city, framed the designation as honoring earlier arrivals and as recognition that municipal infrastructure exists to help newcomers "build their life here for their kids, for their families." Morales highlighted institutional supports such as advisory councils and language access staff that maintain continuity across administrations.
Both guests emphasized the designation is not the finish line. Kaur noted the three‑year process to assemble partner data and programs, and Morales said the city must continue to expand programs and policies so newcomers can fully participate in civic and economic life.
