Welcome
The Immigrant
You Once Were

 
The Welcoming Tennessee Initiative (WTI)

WTI is a collaboration of concerned Tennesseans from all walks of life – business, law enforcement, community and faith – who are proud that Tennessee is a welcoming state, and are working to continue that noble tradition by increasing understanding of how new Tennesseans share our values, contribute to our economy, enhance our combined culture and strengthen our communities.
Most Tennesseans agree that we are and should continue to be hospitable, empathetic people. We have a responsibility to treat everyone – neighbors and visitors alike – with respect and decency.
 

NEWS 

Dialogues On Immigration
Conversations on the Changing Faces of Our Communities
Click here to download the flyer
Tuesdays, April 22, 29, May 6, 13 & 20, 2008
6:30 to 8:30 PM**
 
Presented by the Scarritt-Bennett Center in collaboration with the Tennessee Foreign Language Institute and the Welcoming Tennessee Initiative...more...

 

 
Common Myths About Immigrants and Immigration in Tennessee

Myth #3: Immigrants don’t pay taxes. In fact, Tennessee government is funded by sales and property taxes. Everyone pays these taxes, and the TN Comptroller reports that “Unauthorized aliens contribute to state and local revenue through sales tax, property tax included in rents and other consumption taxes” (TN Comptroller Report on immigration). Despite the legal obstacles, an estimated 60% of undocumented immigrants also pay federal income tax without access to the many federal programs they fund (Pew Hispanic Center)...Click here to read more about myths...