Most Depressing Conference Ever, But We Should All Go Anyway

Went to the opening panel for the UO's Conference on Gender, Families, and Latino Immigration in Oregon.

Last November, we decided to shift some of the (not in the job description for either of us) responsibility for covering Latino communities from me to another staff member, since I'm an arts editor and all.

But I'm a-thinkin' we'll have to share because I can't stand not covering these issues. I definitely have some stories about Latinos, both recent immigrants and longstanding members of the community, that I'd like to pursue in a more focused way with a bit more time...

Anyway. Panel had four members. I came away just feeling like I could devote my life to (learning a lot more Spanish and several indigenous languages and) covering immigrant communities in Oregon, and that the many, many issues are both overwhelming and incredibly important.

More tomorrow. As one member of the panel said, these issues can just consume your life. And unfortunately or fortunately, I have other things to do.

But if you're a person who has some free time tomorrow, I beg of you to head over to the UO's Law School and listen to a panel or two. Dramatically important discussion!

Again: The program in English and Spanish.