International Civil Rights Center and Museum Hosts Immigration Policy Discussion
On Thursday, the International Civil Rights Center and Museum (ICCM) will present “Immigration Issues: Conversations on Policy and Law.” This free event, open to the public, is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. and will also offer online participation options.
Before the event, we spoke with Dr. Omar Ali, a Rosenthal Professor of History and Dean Emeritus at UNC Greensboro, who will be moderating the panel. The discussion will feature a diverse group of experts, including an immigration attorney, a former deputy general counsel for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and prominent leaders from the region’s Latino community.
This event arises from growing community concerns regarding ongoing changes in public policy, particularly those affecting citizenship and refugee status, which have been widely covered in the media. Organizers aim to educate the public and foster an open dialogue about these pressing issues, providing attendees a chance to engage with experts and ask questions.
Topics during the panel will cover crucial issues, such as the implications of public benefits and biometric data, which can exacerbate anxiety and place families in precarious situations. For instance, parents may be hesitant to access public benefits for their eligible children due to fears of deportation.
Additional subjects will include travel bans, visa processing challenges, ICE enforcement actions, and increased scrutiny of those applying for citizenship status. Kathy Hinshaw, chair of Guilford’s Latino Community Coalition, will also contribute her insights on the community’s experiences and share her personal narrative.
Organizers emphasize the importance of maintaining an open forum where attendees can have their questions answered and foster connections with one another. Immigration remains a significant concern for many community members, especially in light of recent ICE activities in North Carolina.
As educators and legal practitioners, it is crucial to disseminate as much information as possible about these complex immigration issues. It is recognized that this is a long-term challenge that requires collective action. The myriad complexities surrounding immigration necessitate community collaboration, enabling collective sharing of expertise and personal stories.
Dr. Ali highlights the significance of hosting such events, citing not only legal ramifications but also the profound impact that shifting policies have on communities as a whole. Immigration concerns transcend individual experiences, affecting everyone within the culture of surveillance that can fracture community trust and goodwill.
Greensboro has long been a refuge for immigrants and refugees, with a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century, including its role in the Underground Railroad. The city is also recognized for the Woolworth sit-in, a pivotal moment in the modern civil rights movement, making it an apt venue for this conversation.
Having lived in Greensboro for 16 years, Dr. Ali shares a personal connection, being the son of immigrants from Peru and India. He expresses pride in the city’s commitment to diversity, as evidenced by the over 150 languages spoken in public schools, which enriches the community’s social fabric.
Attendees are encouraged to walk away feeling understood and supported, particularly those who have been directly affected by unpredictable policy changes. For those less familiar with the challenges faced by immigrants, the event aims to enhance understanding and foster a spirit of empathy and community action.
Engaging with local policymakers about ongoing legislative discussions is one way attendees can contribute positively. By participating in this collective dialogue, individuals can help address the social challenges that affect mental health and community well-being, ultimately fostering a more cohesive society.
