HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) Connecticut immigrants and their contributions to the state are being honored at a state Capitol ceremony this week.

The Connecticut Immigrant and Refugee Coalition is hosting the 19th annual Immigrant Day Ceremony. This year, 12 immigrants who live in Connecticut and hail originally from 12 different countries will honored for their contributions to their community and to their professions.

Secretary of the State Denise Merrill is scheduled to participate in the event on Tuesday. She said ``our strength as a democracy comes from our diversity'' and the fact people from anywhere in the world can succeed in the U.S. Merrill's office co-sponsors the annual event.

This year's honorees were born in diverse countries including Cuba, Ukraine, Nigeria, Iran, Brazil, Ireland, Pakistan, Vietnam, Romania, Jamaica and Poland.