Episodit

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    Get ready for engaging conversations that challenge your perspective! Labyrinth of the First Gen, hosted by Weyu Shameka, returns for Season 3: Collective Missions & Transformative Narratives.

    This season dives deep into the cultural narratives and identities of pioneering first-generation immigrants forging their unique paths around the world.

    What to Expect in Season 3:

    Meet the First-Gen Pioneers: Explore the inspiring journeys of first-generation immigrants who are redefining success on their own terms. Unveiling Bolivian-American Identity: Join the founders of NYC's acclaimed restaurant, The Llama Party, as they share their experiences navigating Bolivian-American heritage.Breaking Barriers in Brazil: Be empowered by Brazilian powerhouse Mercedes Santos as she challenges traditional gender roles and inspires social change.Palestinian & Muslim Identities Intersect: Delve into the complexities of navigating Palestinian and Muslim identities within the United States.

    Don't miss the season premiere starting July 30th! Tune in every Tuesday for a new episode.



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    Host Weyu Hodge explores the rich cultural heritage of the US Virgin Islands and the ongoing fight for self-determination in the season finale of Labyrinth of the First Gen. Weyu shares her family's connection to the islands and interviews renowned activist and professor Dr. Malik Sekou.

    "So our quest has been trying to get, we must try to get our people to see this constitution as an important step towards decolonization in a small way. It is not the same as a big step towards independence or stakeholder-free association, but it's a, it's a small step towards greater self-governance." Dr. Malik Sekou.

    Uncover:

    Caribbean Identity: Explore the unique cultural blend shaping the US Virgin Islands.Decolonization Movement: Learn about the historical context and ongoing efforts for political autonomy.Dr. Sekou's Advocacy: Hear Dr. Sekou's personal story and his work promoting public awareness about self-determination, funded by grants despite natural disasters.The Future of the US Virgin Islands: Discuss the islands' potential paths towards independence or a more autonomous relationship with the US.

    Episode Breakdown

    Exploring US Virgin Islands Identity & Self-Determination (00:00)Activism with Dr. Sekou: A Fight for Decolonization (00:39)Historical Context: Migration & Community (03:38)Dr. Sekou's Journey & Advocacy for Autonomy (06:31)Self-Determination: Past, Present, & Future (18:51)US Virgin Islands vs Puerto Rico's Political Struggles (27:40)The Future of US Virgin Islands' Self-Determination (29:46)Wrap-Up & Farewell (32:02)

    To Learn More About Dr. Sekou's work check out this article

    Self-Determination Initiatives in the US Virgin Islands

    Episode Resources for the Fireburn Uprising in St. Croix in 1978



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  • Puuttuva jakso?

    Paina tästä ja päivitä feedi.

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    In this episode, writer and scholar Dorothy Bell Ferrer dismantles the idea of fixed identities. Ferrer, a professor and doctoral candidate focused on Caribbean literature, explores her own experiences and how they influence her writing that celebrates fluid identity.

    "Entonces el sector eh, bel año le digo estas todo artículo de de. 20 afro latinas que tiene que leer 20 negras que tiene que no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no. En mi opinión, entiendo. El punto es visibili verdad o o verdad? Dar una, eh, un espacio, pero yo siento que también escritoras es suficiente para mí, escritora y punto que no tiene que poner adjetivo" ~Dorothy Ferrer

    You will see magazines that say, here are 20 Afro-Latinas that you have to read or refer to black people in this way. Dorothy says, no, no, no. In my opinion. I understand, right? The point is visibility, to provide a space in this case, for these people. However, I also feel. The description of me as a writer is enough. A writer period there's no need to put any other adjectives ~Dorothy Ferrer.

    In this episode, you'll learn:

    Why Ferrer rejects being confined by labels and fights for a more nuanced understanding of identity.How her Caribbean heritage and literary expertise shape her perspective on identity in her writing.The power of storytelling to explore the ever-evolving nature of who we are

    Episode Breakdown

    02:26 Welcome to Labyrinth of the First Gen Season 2!

    02:55 Charting a Writer's Path: Dorothy's Journey - Dive into the inspiring story of writer Dorothy Bell Ferrer.

    06:52 From Debut Novel to Prolific Writer: Explore Dorothy's professional writing journey and her first novel.

    12:22 Deconstructing Identity: Uncover Dorothy's unique perspective on identity and its complexities.

    25:28 Identity & Capitalism: A Critical Look: Delve into Dorothy's thought-provoking views on identity and its interaction with capitalism.

    32:25 Words of Wisdom from Dorothy: Don't miss Dorothy's insightful advice and inspiration for aspiring writers and anyone exploring their identity.



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    Break free from corporate life and build your dreams! In this episode of Labyrinth of the First Gen, Weyu Hodge interviews Rokhaya, a Senegal-born mompreneur who left Canada and her high-paying job to pursue her passion in Jamaica. Learn more about Rokhaya's business called RokhayaFlow a Podcast and Voice Coaching business aimed at helping Black Women and Women of Color wellness coaches amplify their brand voice through proven podcast marketing strategies. You can follow Rokhaya on Instagram at @rokhaya.flow and on Linked In.

    "The success was really when I became a mother is when I saw the success because I was like, wow, I don't have to go back to a job when I'm feeling sick. I never had to call in sick. So. That's where I found my joy thank God I set up this business beforehand, even though I'm not saying it's paying the bills or anything like that, but to just know that I'm free and that I'm capable and worthy of making that money for myself and breaking, as you said, those path and generational curse" ~Rokhaya

    Rokhaya shares her inspiring story of:

    Transitioning to Entrepreneurship: Diving from corporate success to chasing her own business venture.Embracing a New Culture: Adapting to life in Jamaica and finding resilience through challenges.Healing for Herself and Others: Overcoming past struggles and building a vision for Black women's well-being through healing retreats.Redefining Success: Seeing career gaps as opportunities for growth and personal fulfillment.

    Episode Breakdown

    00:36 Meet Rokhaya, the Inspiring Mompreneur (Introduce Rokhaya and briefly mention her entrepreneurial journey)

    02:34 Building an Identity Beyond Labels: Explore Rokhaya's personal story and how it shaped her identity.

    08:11 From Corporate to Entrepreneur: Rokhaya's Business Journey - Delve into Rokhaya's transition from corporate success to launching her own venture.

    15:12 Embracing a New Culture: Challenges & Adaptations - Discuss the cultural challenges Rokhaya faced moving to Jamaica and her strategies for adapting.

    23:34 A Leap of Faith: Rokhaya's Decision to Move - Learn about Rokhaya's motivations and thought process behind relocating to Jamaica.

    31:18 Mompreneur Power: Advice & Future Plans - Gain valuable insights from Rokhaya's experience with tips for aspiring mompreneurs and her future business goals.

    37:01 Wrap Up and Farewell: Conclude the episode with key takeaways and a warm farewell to Rokhaya.



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    This episode of Labyrinth of the First Gen dives into the vital work of One L.U.V - a Caribbean-based organization fighting for the LGBTQ+ community. Through the narratives of One L.U.V board members, Jamal, Jae, and Bobby, we explore topics like generational differences within the community, facing fears, challenges, and the idea of creating safe spaces. The episode advocates for respect, diversity in opinions, and coexistence, highlighting the need for resources and community support for the LGBTQ+ population now and in the future. For More Information on One L.U.V follow the One Luz Facebook page here

    "I feel that if there were organizations like this when I was growing up and I was still trying for what in the world is going on with me, that maybe I would have felt more comfortable, in expressing myself much earlier. Then I came to figure this out" ~Jamal A. Potter, Social Media Manager, One L.U.V.

    Join the conversation with One L.U.V board members:

    Jamal, Jae, and Bobby share their experiences and the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in the Virgin Islands and beyond.Explore how they're bridging generational differences within the community and fostering acceptance.Learn the importance of creating safe spaces and overcoming fears for LGBTQ+ individuals.Discover One L.U.V's mission to provide resources and support for the LGBTQ+ population.

    Part 2 Show Breakdown

    Building One L.U.V.: Challenges & Triumphs (01:50) - Explore the initial hurdles and successes of One L.U.V. as a Caribbean LGBTQ+ advocate.Pride & Personal Journeys (02:48) - Board members share experiences at their first Pride Parade and its impact on the Caribbean LGBTQ+ community.Confronting Fears & Fostering Acceptance (05:41) - Discuss overcoming personal challenges and creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals.Bridging the Gap: Generations United (09:02) - Explore generational differences within the Caribbean LGBTQ+ community and One L.U.V.'s efforts to bridge them.Visions for a Safe Future (20:34) - Learn about the board members' personal missions for the Caribbean LGBTQ+ community's future.Building Support & Saying Thanks (28:24) - Wrap up by highlighting the importance of resources and community support for LGBTQ+ individuals, and express appreciation for One L.U.V.'s

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    This episode of Labyrinth of the First Gen features Jae (he/him, they/them), Bobby (he/him), and Jamal (he/him), leaders of One L.U.V. (Love, Unity, and Victory). One L.U.V. is a Caribbean-based organization fighting for activism, visibility, and allyship education for the Black LGBTQ+ community. Through their work, One L.U.V challenges perceptions of the LGBTQ+ community as foreign to the Caribbean culture while acknowledging the complexity of their U.S. territory status. For More Information on One L.U.V follow the One Luz Facebook page here

    "We decided that we needed to be a part of not only the parade but the movement that was growing in the Virgin Islands so that we can represent our people and show that We have always been here. We were born here. We're raised here. We give back to our community, not just in tax dollars, but, you know, in brain power, you know, we contribute to the development of the Virgin Islands. So that's our reason for being to for existing and being here and serving our population and doing the work that we do. " ~ Jae, One L.U.V's President

    Episode Breakdown:

    00:00 Meet the One L.U.V. Team: Champions of Caribbean LGBTQ+ (Introduce the team and their organization's mission)

    02:58 From Idea to Action: One L.U.V.'s Founding Story - Explore the origins and motivations behind One L.U.V.'s creation.

    06:35 Pride with Obstacles: The Challenges of the First Parade - Discuss the challenges and controversies surrounding One L.U.V.'s first Pride Parade.

    09:32 Beyond Stereotypes: Challenging Perceptions of Caribbean LGBTQ+ - Delve into the complexities of LGBTQ+ identity within Caribbean culture.

    12:06 Intersections of Identity: Race, Sexuality, and Community - Explore the intersection of race and queerness within the Caribbean LGBTQ+ experience.

    21:35 Building Bridges: One L.U.V.'s Community & Educational Initiatives - Highlight One L.U.V.'s community activities like educational panels and family-friendly events fostering inclusivity.

    28:25 A Lasting Impact: One L.U.V.'s Legacy and Future - Discuss the impact of One L.U.V.'s work and their vision for the future of Caribbean LGBTQ+ rights.

    Key Takeaways:

    Challenging Stereotypes: Learn how One L.U.V. combats the misconception of a "foreign" LGBTQ+ identity in the Caribbean.Navigating Complexities: Discover how One L.U.V. addresses the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in a U.S. Virgin Islands territory.Building Inclusive Spaces: Explore One L.U.V.'s initiatives, including educational panels and family-friendly events fostering acceptance and understanding.Progress & Ongoing Advocacy: Despite progress made, the conversation on Caribbean LGBTQ+ rights continues. One L.U.V. highlights the need for continued advocacy.

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    Special Thanks to Bearbeat Productions for Editing this episode check out their services here.

    Join Labyrinth of the First Gen as we continue to explore the vital work of Collective Ilé, a Puerto Rican anti-racism organization. Hear from Kimberly and Mayra about their work on organizing black identity on census data, how the Black Lives Matter movement and tumultuous events of 2020 in the United States influenced their approach, and the community's changing self-perception on race in Puerto Rico. For more information about Colectivo Ilé check out their website at https://www.colectivoile.org/

    "I think that's my, my calling here. And also because I recognize that the things that I'm doing today are going to have an impact seven generations after. And that's an understanding that we also have as a practice, as an anti-racist racist practice. I think that's, that's a gift that we can receive, but also that's a gift that we can give to the future generations."

    ~Kimberly, Programmatic Director at Colectivo Ilé.

    Episode Breakdown

    00:00 Dismantling Racism in Puerto Rico (Negras Podcast): Introduce the episode's focus on Collective Ilé's anti-racism work.00:58 Meet Maya, Program Director (Collective Ilé): Introduce Maya, a key figure in the fight against racism.02:00 2020's Impact on Puerto Rico: Explore how 2020 events influenced Collective Ilé's work.03:04 Census & Black Identity: Discuss their efforts for accurate Black representation in the census.04:34 Census Success & Challenges: Highlight successes and ongoing challenges in anti-racism work.12:58 Open Discussion & Generational Impact: Encourage engagement and explore intergenerational aspects of the movement.21:06 Building Community & Dreams: Emphasize community building and Maya's dreams for a just future.25:20 Conclusion & Contact Information: Wrap up with key takeaways and how to connect with Collective Ilé.

    Hear from Kimberly and Mayra about:

    Black Identity & Census Data: Discover their efforts to organize and represent Black identity in official records.BLM & Puerto Rico's Evolving Self-Perception: Learn how Black Lives Matter impacted Collective Ilé's approach and Puerto Rico's racial consciousness.Confronting Denial & Social Constructs: Explore the challenges of addressing racism in a society that denies its existence, and the importance of acknowledging race as a social construct with real-life consequences.Building Community & Intergenerational Impact: Uncover the importance of community building and fostering relationships within the movement. Discuss the intergenerational nature of their fight for racial justice.Personal Aspirations & Ongoing Work: Hear Kimberly and Mayra share their dreams for the future, including a safe and fulfilling environment for the next generation and finding balance and well-being amidst ongoing efforts.

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    Special Thanks to Bearbeat Productions for Editing this episode check out their services here.

    Join Labyrinth of the First Gen as Myra and Kimberly from Collective Ilé, a Puerto Rican anti-racism organization. Colectivo Ilé has been campaigning against racism in Puerto Rico for the past 25 years. We discuss understanding of race in the context of Puerto Rico, both historically and politically, and how this influences their work. They also discuss the impact of Hurricane Maria, and how it acted as a catalyst for change and a heightened understanding of their Afro-Descendant identity, particularly within a US framework. For more information about Colectivo Ilé check out their website at https://www.colectivoile.org/. Listen to the Coletivo Ilé podcast called Negras here

    "This is a labor of love and it takes all of us to have that anti-racist future. It takes all of us. White, Black, young kids, older people. It's all of us. So we have some, we are almost obsessed about talking about dreams because that's a way to manifest that future, that anti-racist future." ~ Myra, Colectivo Ilé Administrative Director

    Episode Breakdown

    00:00 Meet Collective Ilé: Fighting for Racial Justice in Puerto Rico (Introduce the organization and its mission)03:05 Beyond Anti-Racism: Collective Ilé's Mission - Explore the mission and goals of Collective Ilé in advocating for racial justice in Puerto Rico.08:08 A Legacy of Colonialism: Puerto Rico's Racial Landscape - Delve into the historical impact of colonialism on race relations in Puerto Rico.09:18 Embracing Afro-Puerto Rican Identity: Discuss the challenges and importance of embracing Black identity within Puerto Rico.14:01 Hurricane Maria & A Racial Reckoning - Explore how Hurricane Maria acted as a catalyst for a heightened understanding of Afro-descendant identity in Puerto Rico.18:52 Building Community & Resilience: Highlight the importance of community and building a sense of home in the aftermath of disaster.25:46 Census as a Tool for Change: Collective Ilé's Strategy - Uncover how Collective Ilé utilized the U.S. Census to advocate for Puerto Rican Black identity.33:09 Conclusion & Taking Action: Wrap up the episode with key takeaways and how listeners can learn more about and support Collective Ilé's work.

    Key Conversation Takeaways:

    Understanding Race in Puerto Rico: Explore their historical and political perspectives on race in Puerto Rico.Hurricane Maria & Identity: Learn how Hurricane Maria sparked a heightened awareness of Afro-descendant identity in a US colonial context.The Census as a Political Tool: Discover how Collective Ilé utilized the US Census to emphasize Puerto Rican Black identity.25 Years of Anti-Racism Work: Delve into Collective Ilé's longstanding fight against racism in Puerto Rico.

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    Special Thanks to Bearbeat Productions for Editing this episode check out their services here.

    This episode dives deep into the inspiring work of Ingrid Gamboa, a Garifuna Guatemalan activist and founder of Iseri Ibagari, a public health center specifically serving the Garifuna community. We explore Gamboa's experiences battling the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the parallels to the fear surrounding COVID-19. She shares her ongoing fight against systemic racism and the impact of establishing an HIV/AIDS clinic with Doctors Without Borders. You'll hear firsthand how Gamboa continues to challenge stigma against the illness and advocate for the Garifuna people in Guatemala. For more information on Ingrid Gambao and to support Iseri Ibagari in Livingston Guatemala visit http://iseriibagari.info/quienes-somos.html

    "Yo tengo algo. Yo no soy indiferente a los problemas. Si algo no está bien, vengo, voy, camino, pero yo quiero resolverlo. Yo soy así verdad sobre como se trata de mi comunidad." Ingrid Gambao

    English Translation

    "If something is not right, I will come. I'm on my way. I want to resolve it. I'm just like that, and especially with the way that they treat my community." Ingrid Gamboa

    Episode Breakdown

    00:00 Introduction to Ingrid Gamboa and Her Activism in the Garifuna Community in Guatemala

    02:23 The Impact of HIV/AIDS on the Garifuna Community

    04:16 Systemic Racism and Government Neglect

    07:59 Doctors Without Borders and the Fight for Support

    12:30 Establishing the First Clinic

    15:26 Challenges and Stigma in HIV/AIDS Treatment

    21:48 Community Efforts and Overcoming Stigma

    29:12 Reflecting on Success and Future Goals

    30:54 Conclusion and Acknowledgements

    Key Takeaways

    Learn about public health initiatives for black populations in GuatemalaGamboa talks about how systemic racism is impacting communities of African descent in GuatemalaWe discuss the impact of the HIV and AIDS in Livingston, GuatemalaWays that Gamboa addresses stigma with HIV and AIDS in Black communities in Guatemala

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    Special Thanks to Bearbeat Productions for Editing this episode check out their services here.

    In this episode, we have a conversation with Gloria Jean Rowe, an Afro-Guatemalan trailblazer, who discusses her book 'Guillaume, Los Otros Negros, The Other Blacks'. The book provides a historical account of the contributions and achievements of Afro-Jamaicans in Guatemala. Gloria touches on her journey from being a reluctant visitor to Guatemala to becoming a passionate historian. She highlights the unique identities and histories of Afro-Jamaicans, Garifunas, and Afro-Colonials in Guatemala. Additionally, she shares her personal story of rediscovery and the impact her work has had on bringing awareness to an often overlooked community. Join us as we delve deep into the untold stories of Afro-Jamaicans in Central America and their lasting impact on the region.

    "I realized that they had lost their identity and their culture. And our traditions were going as well. So I wrote the first book for my family and community, and I self-published 50 copies and I sent it to them. And that's how this whole thing started because I wanted them to know who they were. It was important to me." ~ Gloria Rowe

    Episode Resources Used

    Alejandra Batres, The Experience of the Guatemalan United Fruit Company Workers,1944-1954: Why Did They Fail?

    Episode Breakdown

    00:00 Introduction to Gloria and Her Book01:38 Gloria's Background and Career02:34 Identity and Terminology04:08 History of Afro Jamaicans in Guatemala05:40 Arrival and Settlement of Afro Jamaicans07:13 Cultural Conflicts and Resilience11:54 Migration and Community Changes13:36 Efforts to Preserve Afro-Jamaican Identity24:39 Impact of Gloria's Book25:42 Writing and Publishing Journey36:28 Recognition and Future Goals42:09 Conclusion and Final Though

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    Special Thanks to Bearbeat Productions for Editing this episode check out their services here.

    What does it mean to be "first-generation" in the vast Central American and Caribbean diaspora? Season two of 'Labyrinth of the First Gen' premieres with Diana Martinez, a Garifuna activist, community leader, and owner of Las Tres Garifunas in Livingston, Guatemala. Diana dives into preserving Garifuna culture through cuisine, discussing the restaurant's global influence, her all-women cooperative, and the vision for a Garifuna culinary school. Join us as Diana shares her inspiring journey of breaking barriers, sustaining cultural heritage, and navigating the unique challenges faced by Garifuna women in Guatemala.. Learn more about Diana's Restaurant Las Tres Garifunas on her Facebook page here

    "Yo quiero dar a conocer mi cultura al mundo y esa gastronomía es importante. Sí, es entonces, aprendemos haciendo." ~Diana Martinez De Franzua.

    I want to make my culture known to the world and the cuisine is important and we learn by doing. (English translation)

    Episode Breakdown

    00:00 Season Two Premiere: Exploring the Evolving Definition of "First-Generation" in the Central American & Caribbean Diaspora01:33 Meet Diana Martinez, Garifuna Activist & Leader at Las Tres Garifunas in Livingston, Guatemala02:20 Diana's Culinary Journey: Preserving Garifuna Culture Through Food03:51 The Importance of Garifuna Culture: A Day at Las Tres Garifunas04:44 A Day at Las Tres Garifunas12:01 Cooking and Learning21:04 Fresh Ingredients and Cooking Classes26:34 Diana's Activism and Women's Cooperative38:05 Future Aspirations40:56 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

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    Trailer for Season 2

    Season 2 Paths Created & Barriers Broken Launches in October 2023

    When I think of first-generation I think about how it does not mean one thing. To be first-generation means that you navigated and continue to navigate the labyrinth without a roadmap and carve a path out of the maze with little to no guidance. Season two called Paths Created and Barriers Broken will highlight the expansive definition of what it means to be first gen.

    We will share stories of black leaders in Latin America and the Caribbean who are first gens that have created paths for themselves and for their communities.



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    Episode Description:

    This episode delves into the critical issue of Black land dispossession across the African Diaspora, with a focus on the struggles of the Garifuna people in Central America ([keywords: land rights activism, black history, Central America, Garifuna culture])

    Join Hervan Morgan, a Belizean activist, as he sheds light on:

    The historical theft of Black land ownership in the US and beyond ([keywords: historical land theft, racial injustice, reparations])The fight to protect Serro, ancestral land vital to the Garifuna community ([keywords: Garifuna land rights, land ownership struggle, Central America])The significance of land ownership for cultural identity and economic empowerment within the African Diaspora ([keywords: cultural preservation, economic justice, black communities])

    Inspiring Quote:

    "The world right now as we live, as we journey through this earth. We don't have a high understanding, a deep understanding of justice and fairness. It was something spoken about by Jesus Christ for many years, justice and fairness. And so Serro is all about fairness." ~Hervan Morgan

    Learn More:

    About the Garifuna people: [Insert relevant website here] ([keywords: Garifuna culture, Garifuna history])On Black land ownership: [Insert relevant website here] ([keywords: black land loss, reparations movement])

    This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in:

    Social justice and land rights issuesThe history and culture of the Garifuna peopleUnderstanding the ongoing struggle for racial equity in the African Diaspora

    Resources for this Episode

    Dr. Dania V. Francis.The Contemporary Relevance of Black of Historic Black Land Loss, American Bar Association, 2023



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    Episode Description:

    Alonso, a Mexican immigrant who arrived in the US as a child, shares his powerful story of navigating life as undocumented and ultimately finding a new home in France ([keywords: undocumented experience, DACA recipient, immigration challenges, Mexican American identity])

    Listen in to discover:

    The realities of living undocumented in the United States, even with DACA ([keywords: DACA limitations, undocumented struggles, daily life as undocumented])Why Alonso's decision to leave the US went beyond the limitations of DACA ([keywords: seeking opportunity, finding belonging, immigrant rights])The journey of building a new life in France ([keywords: immigrant success story, immigrant integration, life after immigration])

    Inspiring Quote:

    "Over time, I realize it's the US context that constrains me is the US context that prevents me from finding a job. Of course, there were many resources that I was able to tap into in the US but there were a lot of constraints as well afterwards. So that's the idea of how it came up, well, if I can make it in the US I'm pretty sure there are other countries where I can try and, you know, find a job and live a normal life. Not a life that is kind of a second-class in the United States, not a life in the shadows, a life, you know, a life without fear." - Alonso

    This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in:

    The experiences of undocumented immigrantsThe complexities of DACAThe pursuit of belonging and a secure future

    Episode Resources

    DACA and Dreamers, American Council on Education, 2022

    Undocumented Americans. American Psychological Association, 2013.

    President Obama Meets with DREAMERS on the 10th Anniversary. Obama Foundation, 2023.



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    Episode Description:

    Leilani Chirino, a vibrant Cuban dancer, and first-generation medical student, shares her experiences navigating predominantly white institutions.

    Join us as Leilani explores:

    The challenges of maintaining cultural connections within a predominantly white environmentHow her upbringing in a Cuban community shaped her identity Balancing her passion for Afro-Cuban dance with her medical studies

    Inspiring Quote:

    "My family was very stringent on not whitewashing. As a kids, I went to a Cuban school. I spoke Spanish up until I learned English, I think in high school. I started talking in high school. Our community was multiracial, multiethnic, you know, lower class, but it was beautiful." - Leilani Chirino

    About Leilani Chirino:

    Leilani Chirino, a Cuban medical student at the University of Pennsylvania, took a gap year to teach Afro-Cuban folklore. She is passionate about sharing her heritage and believes being a doctor and a dancer are not mutually exclusive.

    This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in:

    The experiences of first-generation college studentsMaintaining cultural identity in a new environmentBalancing passions and pursuing diverse academic and artistic paths

    Episode Sources

    Hansi Wang. 1 in 7 People Are 'Some Other Race' on the US Census. Thats a Big Problem. National Public Radio, 2021.

    NOE-BUSTAMANTE, Luis. "Measuring the Racial Identity of Latinos." Pew Research Center, 2021.

    Ong, Rebecca. Remittances Grow By 5% Despite Global HeadWinds.The World Bank, 2022.

    Seven, Zuva. Cultural Assimilation -How it Affects Mental Health. Very Well Mind, 2023.



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    Episode Description:

    This episode dives into the complexities of identity for Black immigrants and first-generation Americans

    Join Malika Hodge, MPH, a humanization strategist and health equity advocate, as she explores:

    The unique historical and cultural experiences of Black immigrants compared to African AmericansThe challenges and opportunities faced by Black immigrants navigating a new societyThe concept of "protective shield" for first-generation Black immigrants

    Inspiring Quote:

    "Being the first generation, you're not tainted. In the, in the harms of this country. Like you haven't been wrapped all the way in it. You're just starting off the generational cycle here and I don't think people fully understand how harmful this place is the longer you stay here over time. So there was like a protective shield because of being like, you can't waste the opportunity." - Malika Hodge, MPH

    About Malika Hodge, MPH:

    Malika Hodge, MPH is a thought leader, coach, facilitator, and more. She works to create spaces that center on dignity and justice.

    This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in:

    Black history and identityThe experiences of Black immigrants in AmericaUnderstanding cultural intersections and navigating complex identities

    Follow Malika Hodge at @humancenteredleadershipc on IG



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    Episode Description:

    Seemi Choudry, a writer born in Venezuela to Pakistani immigrants, joins us to discuss her captivating story. We'll explore the unique blend of her cultural background, how her faith intersects with her identity, and the challenges and triumphs of navigating a world that often struggles to recognize the richness of blended identities. Seemi will also share her journey as a writer and the creation of her memoir.

    Born in Venezuela to Pakistani immigrants, Seemi delves into:

    The unique blend of her Venezuelan upbringing and Pakistani heritageHow her faith intersects with her cultural identitiesThe challenges and triumphs of navigating a world that often struggles to recognize the richness of blended identitiesHer journey as a writer and the creation of her memoir

    Connect with Seemi:

    Explore her writing: www.seemichoudry.com (Website)

    This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in:

    The complexities of first-generation identityEmbracing and celebrating diverse backgroundsThe power of storytelling and self-expression

    Episode Resources Pew Research Study Religion Among Millennials



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    Episode Description:

    This episode of Labyrinth of the First Gen explores the complex emotions and experiences of having a dual identity, particularly for first-generation immigrants.

    Join us as guest Zaida Evelina Apolinario Chaplin, a 24-year-old Brazilian-American researcher, shares her journey:

    Balancing her connection to New York, her birthplace, and her mother's homeland, BrazilThe unique joys and struggles of navigating cultural expectations, racial identity, and belonging as a first-generation individual Utilizing the poem "Uncle Sam" by a fellow first-gen to delve deeper into the concept of duality

    Inspiring Quote:

    "I do love the dual identity that I mentioned earlier, it also can be a double-edged sword because at times you can feel like you don't fully belong to anyone or other community, and there are moments where obviously you do and moments where it's like, oh. Though my family is Brazilian and I was raised by a Brazilian and Afro-Brazilian woman. Like I was not born and raised here. Like my cultural references are different. My experiences growing up were different than someone born and raised in Brazil"

    - Zaíra Apolinario Chaplin

    In this episode, you'll also discover:

    How cultural background influences work and future goals ([keywords: first-generation career aspirations, cultural influence on career])The impact of upbringing on shaping a first-generation identity ([keywords: first-generation upbringing, cultural identity formation])Encouraging advice for other first-generation individuals ([keywords: first-generation support, community building, navigating identity])

    Episode 5 References Joshua Aba, a first-generation Nigerian American Poet, You can find his poem here



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    Episode Description:

    This episode explores the unique challenges and perspectives of self-care within Southeast Asian immigrant families. Guest Hyzel shares her personal story and insights gleaned from working with Southeast Asian women.

    Dive into important topics:

    How Western concepts of self-care and therapy clash with traditional cultural valuesGenerational differences in approaching mental health within families The impact of cultural upbringing and love on Southeast Asian mental health Hyzel's journey of redefining self-care and advocating for mental health awareness

    Inspiring Quote:

    "In Southeast Asian culture, there is that concept of self-care somehow loosely. But it's kind of frowned upon. It's something you do in secret, and don't tell other people about it." - Hyzel

    Learn more about:

    The complexities of navigating self-care within immigrant communitiesBridging the gap between cultural norms and mental health practices ([keywords: cultural sensitivity, mental health access, immigrant communities])

    Timestamps:

    Self-Care in Southeast Asian Culture (01:07)Role of Immigrant Parents (01:46)Hyzel's Journey & Background (02:05)Cultural Upbringing & Mental Health (04:46)Love & Immigrant Families (05:49)Service & Sacrifice (07:22)Suppressing Emotions (09:19)Cultural Shock (10:39)Religion in Immigrant Communities (13:33)Redefining Mental Health (16:51)Therapy & Counseling (20:05)Bridging the Gap (32:12)

    Sources used for today's episode

    Ong, Cynthia. "Redefining How We Love." TEDX: Ideas Worth Spreading , 2022, www.youtube.com/watch?v=-DQzNkrxLKo

    Kim SY, Schwartz SJ, Perreira KM, Juang LP. Culture's Influence on Stressors, Parental Socialization, and Developmental Processes in the Mental Health of Children of Immigrants. Annu Rev Clin Psychol. 2018 May 7;14:343-370. doi: 10.1146/annurev-clinpsy-050817-084925. Epub 2018 Jan 24. PMID: 29401046; PMCID: PMC6589340.

    Mancenido, A., Williams, E.C. & Hajat, A. Examining Psychological Distress Across Intersections of Immigrant Generational Status, Race, Poverty, and Gender. Community Ment Health J 56, 1269–1274 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10597-020-00584-w



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    This episode delves into the critical fight to save the Garifuna language, designated a UNESCO Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Join us for an insightful conversation with Milton Guity, a passionate advocate for the Garifuna people and their culture.

    Facing threats of extinction, the Garifuna language, spoken by communities across Central America and the US, struggles against cultural erasure, discrimination, and displacement.

    Milton shares his powerful story:

    Growing up Garifuna in Honduras and navigating cultural identity in the US His dedication to teaching the Garifuna language in New York City The urgent call for collective action to ensure the language thrives for future generations

    Inspiring Quote:

    "We have to do a great job in order to rescue our culture. I would not like to enter into my transition knowing that the risk continues. So the call is for everybody. It is our responsibility to save our language, save our culture, and educate about it." - Milton Guity

    Take Action:

    Learn more about Milton's work and Garifuna culture: https://beinggarifuna.com/?p=15

    Timestamps:

    Introduction (00:15)Garifuna Artists & Cultural Impact (01:25)Preserving Garifuna Language & Culture (02:20)Milton's Garifuna Upbringing (02:59)Importance of Preserving Garifuna Culture (04:27)The Garifuna Diaspora (06:39)Casa Yurumein's Role (08:32)Milton's Journey (09:24)Garifuna History & Struggles (09:42)Language & Garifuna Identity (13:20)Challenges in the Diaspora (15:15)

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