Latin America Workshop Descriptions
Saturday, March 14
Track Time I 10:45-12:15pm
Plenary: Winds of Change? What to Expect from the Obama Administration on U.S. Policy towards Latin America.
We don't yet know if there will be winds of change or mere breezes of change in U.S. policy towards Latin America. But we know what we want. Come discuss with U.S. and Latin American activists our predictions and hopes for change.
Speakers: Adam Isacson, Center for International Policy and Latin American activist.
Track Time II Track Time 4:30-6:00pm
Connecting with Churches in Cuba to End the Ban on Travel
This is a year of possibilities for seriously impacting U.S.-Cuba policy; let's not let this opportunity pass us by. With new legislation to end the travel ban in Congress, the end of our failed policy is on the horizon. The faith community has been active in reminding our government of our faith partners in Cuba; we want to be able to visit them and have them visit us. Join us to learn how you can participate in our renewed campaign to end this outrageous policy. Speakers: Mavis Anderson and Paulo Gusmao, Latin America Working Group; Geoff Thale, Washington Office on Latin America; Marty Shupack, Church World Service.
Track Time III 2:00-3:30pm
Colombia for Activists
It's time to seize the political moment to change U.S. policy to Colombia. Many of you have been active in supporting human rights and peace in Colombia, and now's your chance to make headway. Come get updated about the policy opportunities and strategize with others committed to building a just U.S. policy. Long-time organizers and newcomers welcome! Speakers/conversation facilitators: Lisa Haugaard and Travis Wheeler, Latin America Working Group..
Afro-descendants in U.S. Policy towards Latin America
In Latin America, Afro-descendants comprise over 150 million people, yet over half the poor. The exclusionary practices perpetuated by racial discrimination have serious social, political, and economic consequences. Instead of excluding Afro-descendants, their knowledge and contributions must be at the center of the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the policies and activities that directly affect their lives and regions. Join us for a lively discussion about the policy changes and solidarity work needed to pave the way and learn from activists who have made significant advances in demanding rights and recognition for their communities!
Speakers: Nnenna Ozobia, TransAfrica Forum and an Afro-Latino activist.
Track Time IV 3:45-5:15pm
Promoting a Border Policy that Values All of Creation
Border walls have divided families, scarred wilderness areas, and led to thousands of migrant deaths. In this new political moment, how are environmental activists and people of faith working together to halt the construction of these divisive and destructive walls? What can we do to pressure our elected officials to support humane, environment-friendly border policies that value ALL of creation? Come add your voice to this crucial dialogue and learn what you can do to bring real change to the borderlands.
Speakers: Michael Degnan, Sierra Club and Tammy Alexander, Mennonite Central Committee.
Colombian Refugees: The Regionalization of Colombia's Humanitarian Crisis.
Colombia is home to 4 million internally displaced people, one of the largest internally displaced populations in the world. The needs of the 4 million Colombian citizens who live within the country's borders are well known within the Colombia advocacy community. Less acknowledged and recognized, but just as urgent, are the humanitarian assistance and security concerns that face Colombian refugees who live in the neighboring countries in the region. Often having faced multiple displacements at home, Colombian refugees then find themselves marginalized, vulnerable, and at risk abroad. What is the U.S. policy toward this refugee population? How can U.S. policy change to improve the lives of this forgotten refugee population?
Speakers: Shaina Aber, Jesuit Refugee Service/USA and Jessica Eby, Church World Service.