Bridging Borders: A Conversation on Immigration
In this breakout room, experts on immigration from all sides of the aisle---from journalists, to lawyers---convene to share their unique perspectives on the current climate of immigration policy. In this dialogue, we will begin by exploring the history of immigration within the United States, discuss various solutions from famous strategists, and finally reflect as a group through mini breakout discussions.
Moderator: Cora Welch
Cora Welch has a passion for public policy and biology. She is interested in the intersection between international affairs and the natural world. Cora enjoys teaching visitors about California native species as a wildlife leader at the Lindsay Wildlife Experience. She also takes pride in helping the underprivileged by volunteering at a nonprofit organization that provides affordable housing and support services to the unhoused.
Speaker: Jon Pedigo
Fr. Jon Pedigo, a Bay Area native, has been active in civic affairs and social justice causes for over 35 years in the Bay Area.
Working with the interfaith community of Silicon Valley, labor, community organizers, and civil rights activists, Fr. Jon was just named the Executive Director for PACT, People Acting In Community Together. In his previous position as the Director of Advocacy and Community Engagement for Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County, he developed a methodology of trauma-informed community organizing for people living in chronic poverty, refugees, and immigrant families. Fr. Jon has been acknowledged as a social justice advocate for immigrants and social change by many local organizations and received commendations from various public officials.