By Kathy Chouteau
Contra Costa College is inviting undocumented students to a free resource conference on Saturday, Feb. 22.
Hosted by the Dreamers Alliance of Contra Costa College, the “Empowering the Dream: Heal, Rise & Lead through Art, Mental Health and Education” conference will run from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at College Center Plaza, Fireside Hall and the General Education Building on the campus at 2600 Mission Bell Drive in San Pablo.
Parents, educators and other student supporters are also invited to attend.
The conference will feature workshops spanning the gamut of topics such as immigration rules and policies, scholarships, financial aid, entrepreneurship, stress management, family preparedness and other subject matter that impacts undocumented students, according to a statement provided by the college. Two of the workshops will be offered in both Spanish and English.
Jose Antonio Vargas, a leading voice in immigrant rights and a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, Emmy-nominated filmmaker and Tony-nominated producer, will serve as the conference’s keynote speaker.
Also participating will be poet Yosimar Reyes, a LAMBDA Literary Fellow and recipient of the Undocupoets Fellowship who has been named one of “13 LGBT Latinos Changing the World” by The Advocate and one of “10 Up and Coming Latinx Poets You Need To Know” by Remezcla. BoomShake Music, an intercultural music and storytelling program, will perform.
“We are so excited to welcome community members and future students to this incredible event,” said Contra Costa College’s Interim Dean of Enrollment Rod Santos. “This year we’re focusing on healing and wellness through education and expression. Everyone is welcome to attend, learn and connect with our college community.”
While entrance to the conference is free, RSVPs are required. For more info or to RSVP, click here.
