Boston is giving immigrants, including illegal immigrants, $575 to complete a civic leadership program.
The Immigrants Lead Boston program is only open to immigrants who live in the city, not lifelong Bostonians.
“Interested applicants are encouraged to apply regardless of their immigration status,” the city’s website says.
The Mayor’s Office for Immigrant Advancement runs the 10-week course. People who finish it get a $575 scholarship.
The current course runs from September 21 through December 5. According to the city's website, participants learn about civic engagement, community organizing, immigration history, racism, and so-called equity. Boston teaches classes in English, Spanish and Haitian Creole.
The city says the program helps immigrants get involved in civic life, speak up for their communities and build relationships with government officials. Participants also participate in activities outside class.
Former Boston Mayor Marty Walsh started the program in 2020. Mayor Michelle Wu and her predecessors have continued it.
The Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition helps run the 2026 program. MIRA supports making Massachusetts a sanctuary state. It also supports using public money to provide lawyers for illegal immigrants facing deportation.
Boston put more money into the program in 2025. Groups that worked with participants could request grants of up to $10,000.
Past participants have also worked on political issues. One graduate wanted to help illegal immigrants get Massachusetts driver’s licenses. Another wanted to work with groups that support rent control.
Boston hasn’t said how much the program costs. The city also hasn’t said how many illegal immigrants have received the $575 payments or how much money it has handed out through the grant program.