UMass Boston

On Wednesday, May 20, Chancellor Marcelo Suárez-Orozco will be honored at the Give Liberty a Hand event hosted by the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy (MIRA) Coalition.

As this year continues to present significant challenges for immigrant communities, this recognition as the 2026 Community Champion honoree highlights UMass Boston’s longstanding commitment to immigrant rights and inclusion. An immigrant himself, Suárez-Orozco has been a consistent advocate for policies and practices that promote belonging.

This marks the 30th year of MIRA’s Give Liberty a Hand event, which celebrates collective progress, honors exceptional individuals, and raises vital support for immigrants across the Commonwealth. The honor places the chancellor alongside a distinguished group of previous recipients including: U.S. Senators Edward J. Markey and Elizabeth Warren, Governor Deval Patrick, then Attorney General Maura Healey, Tom O'Brien, and Mohamad Ali, among others.

About MIRA: The Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition is the largest coalition in New England that promotes the rights and integration of immigrants and refugees.