Immigration, policy challenges to be topic at Rice’s Baker Institute March 7

MEDIA ADVISORY

David Ruth
david@rice.edu
713-348-6327

Jeff Falk
jfalk@rice.edu
713-348-6775

Immigration, policy challenges to be topic at Rice’s Baker Institute March 7

HOUSTON – (Feb. 22, 2018) – A screening of short films and a panel discussion at Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy March 7 will explore the state of immigration in the U.S. and the policy challenges ahead.

The “Rational Middle of Immigration” short film series, sponsored by the Center for Houston’s Future, aims to provide historical context and personal stories on immigration to educate the public and shape policy solutions.

Hosted by the Baker Institute’s Mexico Center and the Center for Houston’s Future, the event is free and open to the public but registration is required.

Who: Panelists Charles Foster, chairman of Foster LLP; Gregory Kallenberg, director, writer and producer of “Rational Middle”; Stephen Klineberg, professor of sociology and co-director of the Kinder Institute for Urban Research at Rice; Stan Marek, president and CEO of Marek and member of the board of directors at the Center for Houston’s Future; Tony Payan, the Françoise and Edward Djerejian Fellow for Mexico Studies and director of the Mexico Center; Brett Perlman, president and CEO of the Center for Houston’s Future; and Loren Steffy, “Rational Middle” executive producer and researcher.

What: Screening of “Rational Middle of Immigration” short film series followed by a panel discussion.

When: Wednesday, March 7, 6:30-8:30 p.m. A reception will be held at 6.

Where: Rice University, Baker Hall, Kelly International Conference Facility, 6100 Main St.

Immigration policy has become one of the most important debates facing the nation, yet misinformation and entrenched positions have posed challenges to thoughtful conversations on the role of immigration in today’s society and economy, according to event organizers. Policymakers continue to seek a middle ground on the changes that should be made to United States immigration laws and regulations and on the best way forward in managing the relationship among the U.S., neighboring countries and the immigrants who come here, organizers said.

The public must RSVP for the event at www.bakerinstitute.org/events/1924.

Members of the news media who want to attend should RSVP to Jeff Falk, associate director of national media relations at Rice, at jfalk@rice.edu or 713-348-6775.

For a map of Rice University’s campus with parking information, go to www.rice.edu/maps. Media are advised to park in the Central Campus Garage.

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Founded in 1993, Rice University’s Baker Institute ranks among the top three university-affiliated think tanks in the world. As a premier nonpartisan think tank, the institute conducts research on domestic and foreign policy issues with the goal of bridging the gap between the theory and practice of public policy. The institute’s strong track record of achievement reflects the work of its endowed fellows, Rice University faculty scholars and staff, coupled with its outreach to the Rice student body through fellow-taught classes — including a public policy course — and student leadership and internship programs. Learn more about the institute at www.bakerinstitute.org or on the institute’s blog, http://blogs.chron.com/bakerblog.