“SB1070 and the Battle over Immigration” is the broader topic of a three-part lecture series sponsored by Northern Arizona University’s Martin-Springer Institute, the Office of the Provost and the Office of the President.
The first event, “Debating the Issues,” kicks off at 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 4, at the High Country Conference Center and will feature keynote speakers Thomas Saenz, president and general counsel of the Mexican American Legal Defense and Education Fund, and Jessica Vaughn, director of Policy Studies at the Center for Immigration Studies. Saenz and Vaughn are leaders in immigration policy with contrasting views on SB1070 and immigration reform. The NAU debate team also will participate.
“The series is an opportunity to educate ourselves on issues that affect our community,” said Sara Alemán, NAU director of Ethnic Studies. “Having a forum that encourages healthy dialogue helps students and community members to participate in the debate and analyze immigration issues in a thoughtful manner.”
“Facts and Stories” continues the discussion at 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 11. Jack Chin, a professor of law and the director of the Program in Criminal Law and Policy in the James E. Rogers College of Law at University of Arizona, will clarify the legal controversies of SB1070 with a focus on constitutional issues and racial profiling.
The final event, “Rights and Reform—Call to Action,” will occur later in the semester, date and location to be determined, and will provide an opportunity for students and community members to become involved in immigration issues.
The series is free and open to the public. For information, contact Jane.Marks@nau.edu.