Ep 48: Sankar Raman on the Importance of Sharing Immigrant Stories

<p>Immigration. America is a country made up of immigrants. My parents are immigrants and probably many of your parents or grandparents are as well. It is an important topic and my guest today is the stories of immigrants. Sankar Raman, an immigrant himself who came to America to attend college, ended up working and retiring here. It was around the time of the 2016 election that Sankar was preparing to relax and enjoy his retirement. When he heard the anti-immigration rhetoric and the theme of scapegoating immigrants and immigrants of color, he knew he could not sit back and watch. He had to take action and do something.<br /> <br /> Sankar started interviewing and telling immigrants stories to counteract the rhetoric of hate and negativity against immigrants. He has now interviewed over 180 immigrants and, through these stories, is able to hold true to his mission- to foster empathy and build a more inclusive community by sharing immigrant stories.<br /> <br /> Notable Quotes:<br /> “A lot of times we don’t take the time to understand our neighbors.”<br /> <br /> “I think if you look at the common theme, these folks are resilient. To give up everything to come, to come to a new country without knowing the language. In most cases bringing a dollar or two with them, that’s what America.”<br /> <br /> “And I think that is the beauty of human nature. And I think people are helping each other, giving a hand, at the same time once you are in a position to help, you return the favor.”<br /> <br /> “This America is full of stories of all of us. You know, your story, my story, everyone’s story is what is the America’s story.”<br /> <br /> In this episode, you will hear:<br /> - Why he started the Immigrant Story program and what he hopes to accomplish through it<br /> - Some of the profound changes he has seen with the conversations<br /> - The common themes through the different immigrant stories<br /> - Changes he would like to see regarding policy on immigration<br /> <br /> Resources and links mentioned during this e