0323 - Undocumented on Campus: Building Bridges for Social Justice

Session Submission Type: Course

Description

Undocumented students are on every college and university campus nationwide. What’s their experience? How do undocumented students and their families connect with colleges and universities? How can we as sociologists crack the structures of power on our campuses and in our states to ensure the dignity and respect of undocumented students? The goal of this course is to grow public sociology by bridging academics with local DREAM activists, and to formulate progressive ends on college campuses.

This multi-part course will include an opening address by sociologist Roberto Gonzales (Harvard Professor and author of “Lives in Limbo: Undocumented and Coming of Age in America” (2015) UC Press). Second, students and activists from Connecticut Students 4 a Dream (C4D) will give an up-close look at undocumented lives, including personal testimonies and more (C4D is a statewide youth led organization that works for the rights of undocumented students and their families through community organizing, advocacy, and youth development). Next, we will examine the current immigration system that creates barriers for undocumented youth to achieve success. Then we will explore examples of how colleges and universities nationwide have begun to embrace undocumented students through empowerment, and by creating atmospheres of inclusion. Finally, in break-out sessions, participants will be passed the baton and connect, build, and plan. Each segment of the course will include ample time for discussion, contributions, and collaboration.

Sub Unit

• Courses

Session Organizer

• Carina A. Bandhauer, Western Connecticut State University

Co-Leaders

• Roberto G. Gonzales, Harvard University

• Camila Bortolleto, Connecticut Students 4 a Dream

• Carolina Bortolleto, Connecticut Students 4 a Dream

• Stefan Keller, Connecticut Students 4 a Dream