Today, Mayor John Cooper and Mohamed Hassan, Director of the Mayor’s Office of New Americans, announced the start of the 10th annual MyCity Academy session, Metro Nashville's free seven-month course designed to help New Americans in Nashville better understand and participate in local government.
The first MyCity session will take place on Thursday, March 18 with 24 participants representing 15 countries of origin. The 2020 session was cancelled due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This year’s course will take place virtually to protect the health of all those participating.
“Nashville is a vibrant community because we are a city that is welcoming to everyone. And beyond the welcome mat is a seat at the table,” said Mayor Cooper. “As Nashville turns the corner on a challenging year, I’m pleased to welcome our newest MyCity Academy class. And I look forward to partnering with them to create a Nashville that works for everyone.”
Over 57 countries have been represented among MyCity participants since its inception in 2012, with seven new countries added this year.
Over the course of seven months, MyCity participants meet with leaders from Metro departments and tour Metro facilities. Upon graduation, MyCity participants are better equipped for civic engagement and to help their communities understand and access public services.
MyCity graduates can also interact with New Americans from other communities the MyCity alumni network, which includes over 200 Nashvillians.