As the Columbus City Council sits Monday, April 7, 2025, Councilmember Lourdes Barroso de Padilla will be sponsoring 14 Appointments to seat at the newly formed Commission on Immigrant and Refugee Affairs.

The commission was established last November through Ordinance 2517-2024 to create a direct link between Columbus’ immigrant communities and city leadership.

With member representing immigrant communities from Ghana, Haiti, India, Kenya, Liberia, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Somalia, and South Korea, the commission will be able to begin its work in elevating immigrant voices in city policy and decision-making.

The members include Adeeti Jindal, Bartholomew T. Shepkong, Bashir Ahmed, Daniel Myungho Sim, Fernanda Diaz-Basteris, Kamran Syed Arif, Kassandra Aguirre Ramirez, Mariam Isse, Nadia Jean-Jacques, Naima Ilmi, Sara Abou Rashed, Shahwar Ali, Tasha Lomo and Rev. Dr. Alexander Y Sumo.

Speaking on behalf of the members of the Commission, the Chairman Dr Bartholomew T. Shepkong expressed appreciation to “Councilmember Lourdes Barroso de Padilla and the entire Columbus City Council for their trust and support. Your commitment to inclusion and equity is not only commendable, but also essential.

“This Commission exists to ensure that those who have often been on the margins are not just included—but empowered to shape the policies that affect their lives. Our goal is clear: to help build a Columbus where every resident—regardless of where they were born—has the opportunity to thrive.”

“I’m proud to welcome our new Commission members. This commission represents people from nearly 20 countries and more than 15 languages. Together, let us reimagine what a truly inclusive city can be—and commit ourselves to the work of justice, compassion, and belonging,” he said.

Members may be reappointed to a new three-year term at the conclusion of their initial term. All member appointments shall be subject to a vote by Council, with a majority in the affirmative required for appointment. (Pictures supplied by Abdi Soofe)

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