Reply #204: Immigration 101 program in Anacortes 9/9

[eridani]

Immigration 101
A Program at Pilgrim Congregational United Church of Christ, Anacortes
September 9, 2007
12 to 2 pm

Immigration History 101 is part of a workshop series developed by the National Network for Immigrant and Refugee Rights. It was made to be used in immigrant and refugee communities but I have adapted it a little bit to use for educating white communities in these issues. I don't talk so much about specific legislation today or what positions people should or shouldn't take but I more focus on having people reflect on their personal immigration histories and how it connects to our larger collective history of immigration and immigration policies our government has enacted. The aim is to give people a better sense of understanding the situation we find ourselves in today and give people a space to dialogue and think about constructive solutions to the issues we face today.

It will go for 2 hours. Please bring yourself a brown bag lunch.

The main piece is a historical timeline taped up on walls that the group is taken through. This can be followed by a 30 minute video on immigration and globalization, and other activities that focus on our collective history. Ideally I'd like scrap paper, an easel and flipchart and a TV with VCR and DVD player.

Michael Ramos with the Church Council of Greater Seattle is encouraging congregations to host this training as a good way to start this education.



David Cahn, Community Organizer
Community to Community
203 W. Holly, Suite 318
Bellingham, WA 98225

360/752-3344
davidncahn {at} gmail.com
www.notinmycounty.org


David Cahn was born and raised in Seattle, Washington. While attending Franklin High School he became involved in community organizing efforts against institutional racism and for community accountability within the Seattle Public School District and the Seattle Police Department. A recent graduate of Western Washington University with a degree in American Cultural Studies, he has volunteered with Community to Community Development since 2005. His work with Community to Community in Bellingham has included organizing the Águila del Norte Legal Observer Program in response to the presence of Minuteman Project in Whatcom County. Since a raid by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (I.C.E.) of a local business this past August, the program has grown into the Águila del Norte Immigrant Justice Project. In this capacity he has been educating and organizing people in the white community in solidarity around immigration issues.