The School of Public and Environmental Affairs (SPEA) at Indiana University Northwest is hosting a discussion focused on how immigration laws affect asylum seekers, refugees and children. Titled, “Immigration Policies and Practices in the Land of the Free: Are we Doing the Best we Can?” the virtual webinar takes place on Thursday, February 17 at noon (CST) via the Zoom meeting platform.
 
The discussion will be led by featured guest, Michael Morrone, J.D., immigration law expert and advocate, from Indiana University Bloomington and the Kelley School of Business. He will be joined by three panelists:

• Anita Benna, Ph.D., education expert, Indiana University Northwest
• Ellen Szarleta, J.D., Ph.D., economist and law expert, Indiana University Northwest
• Christopher Young, Ph.D., historian, Indiana University Northwest

This is the second in a two-part series of webinars SPEA has hosted on immigration issues.

A vital topic

“Immigration is a topic that affects us all,” said Monica Solinas-Saunders, SPEA professor and organizer of the event. “With a new presidential administration in place, millions of Americans are waiting to see what’s next for immigration law and eager to understand how any changes may affect them.”
 
According to a recent study by Ball State University, the population of foreign-born residents in Northwest Indiana increased by nearly 77 percent from 2000 to 2015, representing nearly one third of all population growth.
 
“Immigration is vital to the future of the region,” added Solinas-Saunders. “It is something that touches many parts of our lives from economics, to education, and of course the legal system. We have assembled a panel that can help people understand all of the nuances related to immigration policies and practices and are looking forward to an informative and enlightening event.”
 
To join the conversation via Zoom at noon (CST) on February 17, visit: https://bit.ly/3p3u12i