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Ignatian Solidarity Network Organizes Teach-in Mar. 7 to 9
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Monday, February 25, 2008
Ignatian Solidarity Network Organizes Teach-in Mar. 7 to 9
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Tony Plana, from ABC’s hit show Ugly Betty, will join more than 450 young leaders from nearly 50 schools, parishes and other organizations from across the country for a more human look at a heated debate.
WASHINGTON, February 25, 2008 -- More than 450 representatives from nearly 50 schools, parishes and other organizations are heading to Loyola High School in Los Angeles on March 7. They are gathering from around the country for three days of discussion and reflection on the human side of immigration.
In the aftermath of last year’s divisive debate over comprehensive immigration reform, organizers hope multicultural dialogue and learning will lead to deeper understanding. “We’re not telling participants how to think or vote on this issue,” says Ann Magovern, executive director of the Ignatian Solidarity Network (ISN), “It’s about sharing a personal experience of what it means to be a migrant and offering a framework for people to have their own discussions.”
The focus will not be on a particular policy outcome but rather on empowering participants to decide how they, individually and collectively, want to show their solidarity with vulnerable immigrant populations. “ This upcoming teach-in will provide students with the unique opportunity to learn, discuss and act upon the important issues facing our generation, including human trafficking,” according to Kilan Moote, a University of San Francisco student planning to attend.
Tony Plana, a Loyola High School graduate, will serve as moderator. Plana is best known for his role as the dad, Ignacio Suarez, on the groundbreaking ABC television show Ugly Betty. He hosts a weekend full of presentations from experts, community organizers, social service providers and first-person accounts of life as a migrant in the United States. Attendees are a diverse mix of high school and college students, volunteers, and professionals. Throughout the weekend they will gather in large and small groups, for prayer and reflection and finally for planning and action.
Once everyone returns home, the ISN plans to provide resources to keep the discussion going and expanding. “I’d love to see mini teach-ins on campuses and in parishes nationwide,” says Magovern. “After getting to know some of the people – their fears and aspirations -- affected by this issue, it won’t be as easy to polarize the debate.” And no matter where you stand on comprehensive immigration reform, we could all benefit from a little less polarization this election year.
Based in San Francisco, the Ignatian Solidarity Network's purpose is to facilitate and enhance the effectiveness of existing social justice and advocacy efforts that are currently present in Jesuit affiliated high schools, universities and colleges, parishes, retreat centers, independent organizations and lay individuals across the nation. The network serves as a means to connect, strengthen, and broaden communication among these already existing groups in order to better understand what it means to live and act upon "a faith that does justice." For more information visit www.ignatiansolidarity.net