Thank you for staying connected with the International Institute of Akron. Your continued support helps ensure that immigrant and refugee families in our community have access to the resources, care, and opportunities they deserve.
This month, we’re sharing updates on our community impact, important news, cultural celebrations, and ways to stay engaged.
Thank You to Akron Community Foundation
We extend our sincere gratitude to Akron Community Foundation for their generous support through the Summit County Opioid Healing Fund and general operating funds.
Because of this investment, IIA can continue expanding substance use prevention efforts and providing vital, culturally responsive support to immigrant and refugee families across our community.
IIA Food Pantry Impact
From November 1, 2025, through March 31, 2026, IIA’s emergency food pantry served 922 individuals across 201 families.
This effort was made possible by the incredible support of our community and was created in response to the sudden loss of SNAP benefits for many immigrant and refugee households.
As we begin to wind down pantry operations, our case managers have been working closely with families to ensure continued food security by connecting them with local food banks and community resources. Families have also been referred to additional IIA services, including employment support and English language learning, to help address ongoing needs.
If you would still like to support families during times of emergency, we will continue accepting grocery store gift cards.
In the News
Recent reporting highlights ongoing legal challenges surrounding birthright citizenship. The Supreme Court appears inclined to rule against efforts to limit this constitutional right. IIA will update as we hear more.
Read more: NPR – Supreme Court majority seems inclined to rule against Trump on birthright citizenship
Celebrating International Women’s Day, Eid, and Nowruz
March was a month of meaningful celebrations both here in Akron and around the world.
International Women’s Day (March 8)
This global day recognizes the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women, while also serving as a call to action for gender equality.
At IIA, we celebrated the incredible women who strengthen our organization and community every day through their leadership, resilience, and care.
Learn more: PBS News – International Women’s Day
Eid al Fitr (March 20)
Marking the end of Ramadan, Eid is a time of joy, reflection, and community. After a month of fasting, Muslim families gather to celebrate with food, prayer, and connection.
Learn more: What is Eid al Fitr?
Nowruz (March 21)
Observed the day after Eid this year, Nowruz marks the Persian New Year and the arrival of spring. This 3,000-year-old celebration emphasizes renewal, hope, and new beginnings, and is celebrated by over 300 million people worldwide.
Learn more: Nowruz – Persian New Year (History Channel)
Bonus video: Nowruz traditions and celebrations
Updated Resources Page
Our resources page continues to grow with advocacy updates, Know Your Rights information, and educational content.
We’ve also added a curated list of movies, documentaries, and TV shows that explore the immigrant experience.
Highlights include:
Minari (2020) – A Korean American family pursues their version of the American Dream in rural Arkansas
Mo (2022 to 2025) – A comedy drama following a Palestinian refugee navigating life in Houston
Living Undocumented (2019) – A docuseries sharing the realities faced by undocumented families in the United States
You’ll also find recommended books, articles, and podcasts for deeper learning.
Anniversary of the Refugee Act of 1980
This month marks the 46th anniversary of the Refugee Act of 1980, a landmark law that established a more humane and consistent system for refugee resettlement in the United States.
This legislation was shaped in part by the experiences of Vietnamese families displaced after the Vietnam War, whose journeys underscored the urgent need for protection and dignity.
Today, we reflect on that legacy at a time when refugee resettlement is facing significant strain. Over the past year, federal actions have:
Paused new refugee arrivals
Canceled travel for individuals already approved
Restricted eligibility for resettlement
Dramatically lowered the annual admissions ceiling
As a result, thousands of refugees remain in limbo, including families separated by sudden travel cancellations and individuals stranded despite years of vetting.
Resettlement agencies across the country have also faced severe funding disruptions, limiting their ability to support newly arrived families.
As we honor this anniversary, we are reminded that the need for safety, dignity, and welcome remains as urgent today as ever.
We’re Hiring: Contract Interpreters
IIA is currently seeking contract interpreters to support our growing community.
If you are multilingual and passionate about helping others access critical services, we encourage you to apply.
Learn more: Join Our Team — IIA
How to Get Involved
Donate
Support IIA programs that help immigrants navigate legal, employment, and educational challenges during uncertain times.
Grocery Gift Cards
Help families facing food insecurity by donating grocery gift cards or items from IIA’s donation list.
Advocate
Stay informed about SB172 and other policies impacting immigrant communities. Sharing accurate information and raising your voice makes a difference.
With Gratitude
We extend our deepest thanks to the greater Akron and Summit County community.
Whether you are a donor, volunteer, partner, advocate, or someone who takes the time to stay informed, your support matters more than you may realize.
We are here because you are here, and we are deeply grateful.