Lecture Spotlights Migration, Human Rights
An afternoon of thought-provoking discussion and powerful storytelling unfolded at the University of La Verne’s annual Frederick Douglass Lecture last week, where migration, human rights, and social justice took center stage.
Hosted by the College of Arts and Sciences, this year’s distinguished speaker, Jason De León, captivated the audience with his insightful discussion on migration, border politics, and human rights. His research shed light on the often-overlooked human cost of undocumented migration, emphasizing the real-life struggles and resilience of those who undertake dangerous journeys in search of a better future.
The lecture, created to honor the values of advocacy, social justice, and human rights championed by Frederick Douglass, provided a timely and thought-provoking dialogue. De León, a MacArthur Fellow and National Book Award-winning author, is the Director of UCLA’s Cotsen Institute of Archaeology and the Executive Director of the Undocumented Migration Project (UMP), a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness about global migration issues. His work, which combines ethnographic, visual, archaeological, and forensic approaches, has been featured in leading media outlets and continues to influence public discourse on migration. During the lecture, he shared powerful narratives from his research, blending academic rigor with deeply human stories that resonated with the audience. His compelling insights underscored the urgent need for informed discussions on immigration policies and humanitarian efforts.
As the event concluded, students, faculty, and community members engaged in a vibrant Q&A session, reflecting on the themes of the lecture and their broader implications. The Frederick Douglass Lecture continues to serve as a vital forum for fostering awareness and critical conversations about pressing social issues, reaffirming the University of La Verne’s commitment to education, advocacy, and justice.
