Kate Farrar

HARTFORD— Today, State Representative Kate Farrar (D-West Hartford, Newington) was honored with the Myra M. Oliver Memorial Award from the Connecticut Immigrant & Refugee Coalition (CIRC). This award is presented to individuals who demonstrate extraordinary commitment to supporting refugees and immigrants, embodying the legacy of Myra M. Oliver's lifelong dedication to service.

Representative Farrar was selected as a recipient for her tireless advocacy and legislative support of refugees and immigrants along with her colleague Representative Jennifer Leeper. Together, they successfully advocated for an additional $1 million in funding for Connecticut’s refugee resettlement organizations to address the “welcome gap.” Due to Connecticut’s high cost of living, the federal funding often does not cover the expenses for families in the first months of resettlement in Connecticut. This additional state funding can close that gap. Additionally, last year Representative Farrar championed the passage of Public Act 23-40 to expand the number of languages offered for the drivers' license exam which helps many refugees and immigrants rebuild their lives in Connecticut.

"As the wife of a refugee, I understand the courage and resilience of families who leave all they know behind in search of safety and opportunity," said Rep. Farrar. "I am deeply grateful to the Connecticut Immigrant & Refugee Coalition for this recognition. I will continue to advocate for the rights and dignity of all residents and will strive for a more just and inclusive Connecticut that welcomes all. Our state is only stronger from the diverse contributions of refugees and immigrants in our communities."

CIRC presented Representative Farrar with the Myra M. Oliver Memorial Award at the annual Connecticut Immigrant Day Awards at the State Capitol.