DAY 2 - FRIDAY, JUNE 25

The Positive Impact of Immigrants on the Economy

1:00 PM - 2:20 PM

The United States has been and continues to be a county of immigrants. Their economic contribution has been significant and consistent throughout the centuries. Immigrants work at high rates and make up more than a third of the workforce in some industries. Their geographic mobility helps local economies respond to worker shortages, smoothing crises that could otherwise weaken the economy. All workers, regardless of their country of origin, should work free from the fear that they will be underpaid or placed in a dangerous environment.

Cultural Presentation

2:20 PM - 2:40 PM

Short film: La entreViú directed by Maité Bonilla (NYC)

Sandra is Ms. White’s care assistant, never missing a request, and Chú is the delivery Guy who runs her errands. The story begins in the midst of tension between Sandra and Chú, as they prepare for an interview at an immigration appointment.

Short Documentary: Paola Baldión (Italy – Colombia)

Paola talks about her experience as a pregnant woman living during pandemic times.

Education: The Pathway to Opportunities

2:40 PM - 4:00 PM

The American society is exceptionally dynamic, and it imposes the necessity of adapting and overcoming an obstacle to reinvent yourself. Education is the ever-present constant in achieving this goal. Also, the process of acculturalization requires immigrants to acquire knowledge of the law, culture, and traditions of the host country. This seminar aims to promote the importance of education as a way for immigrants to succeed in the United States.

Cultural Presentation

4:00 PM - 4:15 PM

Short documentary: Melina León (Perú)

Melina describes the great experience of producing “Song without name”, a Oscar Academy nominated film, including themes of discrimination, racism, and homophobia.

Short documentary: Mestiza (Venezuela)

Mestiza talks about her process of adaptation to NYC as a Latina woman rapper and the personal challenges that shape her songs.

Healthcare among the Immigrant Community and the Impact During the Covid-19 Pandemic

4:15 PM - 5:20 PM

Immigrants have been identified as a vulnerable population. Overall, immigrants have less access to health insurance and receive a less frequent and lower quality of care in comparison to born Americans. Here we examine the factors that affect immigrants’ vulnerability, including socioeconomic and immigration status, limited English proficiency, federal, state, and local policies on access to publicly funded health care. Particularly, we will discuss this impact during the pandemic and the disproportionate impact among the elderly and women.