4 session GRIID class on the history of US immigration policy in November at Fountain St. Church

This class is designed to provide important historical context around the issue of immigration and immigration policy. We will be using various reading materials to assist us in understanding the complexities of US Immigration policy, major themes in US Immigration policy since the country was founded, grounding our understanding of immigration policy in light of what is happening now.

In addition to specific policies, this 4 session class will discuss significant changes that occurred with the US Government around the creation of the Department of Homeland Security in 2001, the creation of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in 2003 and the proliferation of ICE Detention Centers.

There will also be some focus on countering the narratives around undocumented immigrants, specifically the economic issues that the anti-immigration sectors have been pushing in recent decades.

The other areas of focus will be on looking at the root causes for why people, especially those coming through the US/Mexican border, are coming to the US. Lastly, there will be discussion around a larger immigration justice framework looks like and what is happening in West Michigan around immigrant justice work.

There is no cost for the 4 sessions. The dates of the 4 sessions are:

Sunday, November 2, 9, 16 & 23 from 12:30 – 2:00 PM, in the Fountain St. Chapel. 

Free parking on the street and at the GRCC garage located across from the church at Fountain and Library Streets (please note: free parking ends at 3:00 PM)