Learn More About Ethnic Heritage and Immigrant Rights at these Thought-Provoking Workshops

Presented by a Brown University Professor Kevin Escudero and his students, these engaging workshops tackle some of the most challenging and topical issues that we face in today's America. What is it like to experience life from the perspective of a new or recent immigrant, whose presence is often challenged? What happens when a person's cultural heritage is ignored - or even denied? And what can we do to examine our feelings and attitudes to bring positive change in the city of Providence?  

Precious Knowledge: Screening and Discussion 
December 6 6:00PM - 7:30PM
Mount Pleasant Library

This 2011 documentary (see trailer, below) tells the story of Latinx students in Arizona, who fought authorities to make changes in a school curriculum so that their cultural heritage would be recognized and appreciated. Why did such a reasonable request turn into a battle? And what can the people of Providence learn from the experience of these students? 

Join us to watch the documentary, then enjoy a lively discussion with Prof. Escudero and his students, who will share insights from their own studies and research in the field of Ethnic Studies. 

Know Your Rights Training  (Bilingual in English and Spanish) 
December 3 6:00PM - 7:30PM
Olneyville Library

December 5 6:00PM - 7:30PM
Knight Memorial Library

This training will outline the legal and civil rights of refugees and of new and recently arrived immigrants. At a time of increasing hostility toward immigrants, what are the most effective ways to advocate for greater tolerance and acceptance of the newest members of our community? This workshop will benefit anyone who wants to understand how to better serve the needs of the immigrant population.

These four workshops are a part of an exciting collaboration between PCL and the Department of American Studies and the Center for Public Humanities, Brown University.The partnership will generate a range of community partnership projects over the next five years, thanks to a grant from the American Studies Association (ASA). You can read more about the collaboration here.