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Events

Upcoming Events

Join the DePaul Migration Collaborative and hear from Practitioner in Residence Charlotte Long as she shares her research findings and invites you to hear about the ways in which informal faith networks have worked to fill in the gaps of housing for recent arrivals. Discover key insights, challenges, and potential future directions in faith-based housing solutions. Drawing from a qualitative study of 20 diverse faith-based networks, spanning dozens of communities who often assist in housing one family at a time,  this event explores how these groups operate without steady funding or formal support, what housing models they've found effective, and the role they play in Chicago’s migrant housing landscape. This event is hybrid. Food will be provided.
 
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When we think of human rights, we don’t always think of food and housing—but these are essential rights for all, including refugees and asylum seekers.

Are the meals forced migrants receive nutritious, affordable, and sufficient? Is their housing safe, stable, and close to what matters—work, services, and community? How do these realities compare between Chicago and Vienna?

Join the DePaul Migration Collaborative for a presentation of research from Practitioner in Residence Josh Friedman. Be the first to hear research insights on the right to food and housing for refugees in both cities, highlighting what’s working, where challenges remain, and how we can do better.

We invite the DePaul community and beyond to hear our findings, ask questions, and help imagine a more just future. Light food will be served for in-person guests.

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You are invited to the Vienna closing event of the PRAxIS Project — Protecting Rights Across Contexts and International Sharing — a research initiative examining how cities in the Global North can effectively support and integrate forced migrants by ensuring access to adequate food and housing. Led by the DePaul Migration Collaborative (DMC) at DePaul University and with the cooperation of the Institute for Social Policy at the Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU), PRAxIS examined legal, policy, and community-based approaches in Chicago and Vienna.

Through comparative research and community engagement, this project has identified best practices and practical recommendations to enhance the human rights and well-being of refugees, asylum seekers, and other displaced persons.

Come hear key findings and recommendations based on the research, discuss with a forum of experts, and share your own reflections on building inclusive, rights-respecting communities of refugees and asylum seekers. Following the event, guests are invited to stay for light catering and informal networking.

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​​​​​Past Events

Beyond the Brick Wall: Shaping Adequate Housing in Urban Environments for Migrants (April 24, 2025)

The panel, Beyond the Brick Wall brought together researchers from the DePaul Migration Collaborative to discuss the pressing issue of adequate housing and its intersections with forced migrant experiences. Professor Molly Brown an Associate Professor at DePaul and Director of the Homelessness Advocacy, Research and Collaboration Lab, moderated the conversation. Professor Brown, is involved with direct housing advocacy efforts such as coordinated entry systems which are methods that local communities use to allocate scarce housing resources to the population of unhoused individuals, families, and youth, experiencing homelessness of any kind.  

Panelists included:  

Josh Friedman, Practitioner in Residence, who shared insights from his work in Vienna and Chicago on the right to adequate housing under international law.  

Ramya Ramanath, Solutions Lab Grantee and a professor at DePaul’s School of Public Service, highlighted her research on how irregular migrants navigate housing systems in other countries.   

Charlotte Long, Practitioner in Residence and housing specialist, emphasized the critical role of community networks in supporting newly arrived migrants in Chicago.  

The discussion centered on the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights and its definitions of the 7 elements of adequate housing: (1) Security of Tenure, (2) Availability of Services, (3) Affordability, (4) Accessibility, (5) Habitability; (6) Location, (7) Cultural Adequacy. To start the conversation, researchers shared some of the ways they have seen housing evolve or be provided for in cities. Speakers mentioned that despite IL being a Welcoming City there is no formal right to housing in IL which can impact programming and policy. Each speaker shared examples of supportive policies, migrant experiences, and methods of gap fulfillment. Panelists addressed how legal status, discrimination, and documentation issues compound housing challenges for migrants and make it challenging to achieve adequate housing.   

Lessons from international contexts, including Austria and Chile, revealed common themes of exclusion and the need for policy reform and coordinated support systems. The conversation also highlighted the intersectional impact of housing inadequacy, particularly on families, gender or socioeconomic status prior to migration. When panelists were asked about conflict between a host cities’ homeless population vs immigrant populations,  speakers dispelled the assumption that there is a correlation between rising housing costs and immigration through sharing data driven research with guests and shared how migration rather highlights an already existing problem and pushes policy makers to prioritize a response.   

Looking forward, panelists stressed the importance of civil society/informal groups, legal reform, and interdisciplinary collaboration for all affected by homelessness. Students were encouraged to engage through policy, advocacy, volunteering, and applying their learned skills in combination with the Vincentian question “What Must Be Done” to promote equity. Thank you to our speakers and guests for engaging in this conversation.   

Who Belongs? Birthright Citizenship, Immigration Raids & Sanctuary Cities (February 25, 2025)

On February 25th, the DMC hosted part two of its executive orders series. At this event Professor David Franklin reviewed the process for an executive order to become law and emphasized the legal framework including Congress’s role. Professor Allison Tirres continued the conversation by talking about the Birthright Citizenship executive order. She reviewed some of the history, interpretation and court precedents in relationship with the 14th Amendment. Afterwards, Professor Tirres spoke about designated statuses (TPS, Parole) that are currently threatened or will change under the Trump Administration. This included a discussing of the Immigration and Nationality Act, expansion of expedited removal, and current challenges to administrative decisions by the courts. Professor Tirres also spoke about actions in IL including Know Your Rights presentations, resources, and law enforcement cooperation with ICE. During the presentation a litigation tracker and a few volunteer opportunities were shared with students and there was a lively Q&A from law students. Special thanks to Professors David Franklin, Allison Tirres, and Sioban Albiol for putting this informative presentation together.

Amplifying Migrant Voices: Insights from Participatory Evaluations on Immigrant Legal Services in Chicago (February 20, 2025)

On February 20, 2025, Ellen Miller shared insights from her project focused on participatory evaluations on immigrant legal services in Chicago. Ellen introduced her team and research, focusing on migrants' access to legal resources, the challenges they face, and potential solutions. Key topics included community engagement, the allocation of legal aid resources, and the existing gaps in service delivery. Research highlighted barriers such as information gaps, financial constraints, system overwhelm, and language barriers. Research Assistants Juliana and Alondra emphasized the diversity of participants and the research methodology. The discussion underscored the need for improved representation through feedback, how that data can change programming, and the need for improved information sharing that will better support individuals navigating complex legal systems and avoid scams.

Training the Trainers: Know Your Rights Workshop (February 13, 2025)

On February 13th, The Center for Latino Research, College of Law, and the DePaul Migration Collaborative hosted guest Fred Tsao to give a Know Your Rights Workshop. The goal of the workshop was to inform students, faculty, and staff of their rights when interacting with ICE and respond to questions. This discussion on advocacy and rights empowers individuals and their community and is part of a larger Chicago response in informing all of their rights.

Asylum Through the Looking Glass: Executive Orders and the Future of Refuge (February 12, 2025)

On February 12th, the DMC kicked off their series responding to the immediate changes in the migration landscape. This first event examined recent U.S. Executive Orders affecting immigration and refugee policies. Professor Sharma opened with explaining what the U.S. Refugee Admission Program (USRAP) is and our commitment as a nation to International Humanitarian Law. President Trump signed an executive order freezing USRAP for 90 days and this was followed by a set of orders that took away Congress's ability to regulate refugee and asylum seeker's arrival. Dr. Sharma then continued to explain how these orders change refugee admissions by criminalizing migration and institutionally subverting the purpose of USRAP. She then elaborated on the domestic and international impact these changes could have.

Professor Craig Mousin followed this with an in depth look at other Executive Orders related to immigration. He expressed that some of these executive orders are not aligned with the constitution and legal processes. He also highlighted dangerous and misleading rhetoric surrounding the executive orders.  Dr. Mousin then contextualized how other executive orders will have an impact on immigration, the economy, the legal process, and the threats to our morals as a people. Overall, the event proved informative to participants and ended with a lively Q&A.

“Nada para nosotros sin NOSOTROS”:  EVALUACIONES PARTICIPATIVOS CON MIGRANTES Y SOLICITANTES DE ASILO EN CHICAGO (January 16, 2025)

Practitioner Ellen Miller presented her initial findings from participatory evaluations to the participants involved in her DMC community-based research study. Ellen stated, "I was really looking forward to re-engaging and sharing with the community what their collective voices and experiences can teach programmatic decision makers." Overall, this was a great moment to connect with the voices that made the research possible. From the event Ellen, gathered more feedback on her analysis while staying true to the projects goal of inclusive data collection.

Participatory Feedback Mechanisms with Chicago Immigration Legal Services: A Discussion of Findings (January 7, 2025)

To start off the new year, DMC Practitioner in Residence Ellen Miller met with Chicago immigration legal service providers to discuss her report and the resources she created to aid organizations in gathering feedback from participants.The first half of the session focused on Ellen’s initial report, examining key data and demonstrating how to utilize the resources provided. She emphasized the importance of gathering feedback, addressing current challenges, and offering creative solutions for overcoming barriers to data collection such as staff capacity, language, etc. This was followed by a discussion where legal service providers expressed their appreciation for translated survey questions and asked further about implementation logistics. Ellen then shared a preview of her initial findings from focus group participants, detailing their experiences accessing legal services and the barriers they face. She then invited attendees to return in February for a presentation of her full findings. The session concluded with an engaging Q&A and a discussion of her focus group results, leaving attendees eager to learn more and anticipating the release of the second report.

Solutions Lab Info Session (October 8th, 2024)

The Solutions Lab Information Session on October 8th, 2024, from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM (via Zoom) prepared participants for the Solutions Lab application process.The session covered the application process, funding, partnerships, student involvement, and included a Q&A.


Solutions Lab: Innovation and Immigration 3 Part Series (May 2024)

The DMC Solutions Lab Series, held throughout May 2024, showcased the powerful intersection of academic research and community partnerships aimed at addressing critical social issues. On May 8, Dr. Black and his research assistant, Kyle Jennings, presented their work on migrant finances, highlighting the challenges undocumented migrants face in accessing financial services and exploring innovative technologies to bridge these gaps. Their research, conducted in collaboration with Mano a Mano, emphasized the importance of accessible banking practices for migrants. On May 15, Dr. Arnold and her student team shared their research on country conditions for asylum cases, a partnership with The Resurrection Project, which has resulted in vital reports for legal service providers and empowered students to volunteer in immigrant justice work. Dr. Arnold's team has studied conditions in 14 countries, providing essential resources for those unable to afford expert witnesses. Finally, on May 20, Dr. Cooper discussed her project, "Building a Resilient Volunteer Tutor Program to Serve Refugees," in collaboration with FORA. Her research focused on nonprofit sustainability and volunteer resilience, with students contributing through phases of communication consulting, focus groups, and social media outreach. Together, these presentations highlighted the important role of research and collaboration in supporting marginalized communities.

Cities and Migration: Plan, Policies, and Action (April 11, 2024)

The DePaul Migration Collaborative's Second Annual convening brought experts, nonprofit leaders, students, scholars of migration, policy makers, and legal advisors to discuss contemporary migration issues in our Cities and Migration: Plans, Policies, and Action Symposium. This symposium answered urgent and timely questions related to youth, health, law, housing, data and research, and labor with innovative solutions. This event offered 5 CLE credits to those applicable and CEU credit.

Speakers:  Symposium Speaker Bios 2024.pdf

Final Report: Final Report- 2024 Symposium

Stakeholder Roundtable: Response to Illinois Migration and Report Findings (March 14, 2024)

DMC Practitioner in Residence Rob Paral hosted a discussion following the release of his report, "Building a Plane While It's Flying: Illinois Confronts a New Era of Forced Migration." The report provides a demographic analysis of forced migrants recently arriving in Chicago from regions such as Ukraine, Afghanistan, and Venezuela, alongside recommendations for improving state support. Non-profit leaders and City of Chicago representatives participated, sharing insights, experiences, and organizational actions. The group of over 30 participants brainstormed strategies for inclusive support, emphasizing the need for innovative communication tools and cross-organizational collaboration. They stressed the importance of involving migrants in future discussions and ensuring state and local programming supports all marginalized communities in Chicago.

Speaker: Rob Paral (DMC Practitioner in Residence)

Central America Monitor: Groundbreaking Data on El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras  (February 20, 2024)

This panel discussion featured international researchers to explore the work of the Central American Monitor, a collaborative research initiative focused on tracking human rights, justice, security, and transparency in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy  contextualized the project, Laura Andrade shared insights from extensive social research,Lissette Vásquez addressed impunity and human rights, and Migdonia Ayestas presented data on crime and violence. The bilingual event, attended by over 70 students, staff, and faculty, highlighted regional challenges and migration implications, emphasizing collaborative efforts for justice and security.

Speakers: Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy (DMC Practitioner in Residence), Laura Andrade -(Director, IUDOP, El Salvador), Lissette Vásquez (Director, Myrna Mack Foundation, Guatemala), Migdonia Ayestas (Director, Violence Observatory, Honduras)

“Taking on Asylum Cases” A Series (October 2023- 2024)

The DePaul's Asylum and Immigration Legal Clinic (AILC) and the DMC’s Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy, led a series entitled “Taking on Asylum Cases: Focus on Country Condition Research, Experts, and Asylum Claims.” Each training focused on a single Central American Country: Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador. At each, Dr. Kennedy delved into the current socio-political and judicial landscapes of each country, equipping attendees with crucial information for crafting comprehensive country conditions reports for asylum applicants.

Speaker: Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy (Practitioner in Residence)

Forced Migration To Chicago: What You Should Know Panel (January 30, 2024)

The event explored reasons migrants may flee their home countries, migrant experiences at the US-Mexico border, the journey of migrants being bussed to northern cities, and the unique situation of Ukrainian refugees in the Chicago area. Panelists and participants explored areas of tension including insufficient housing and shelter as well at the impact of current federal and local immigration policies.

Moderator: Jesse Mumm (DePaul Professor)
Speaker: DMC Practitioners in Residence Rob Paral and Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy alongside Laura Rodríguez-Presa (Chicago Tribune Reporter, and Breandán Magee (Senior Director of Programs for the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR)).

Country Conditions Expert Witness Training (January 25, 2024)

This training led by Dr. Kennedy was created for faculty members from across the Chicago area to learn how they can support asylum seekers through expert witness testimony. As a recognized expert witness in the country conditions of Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador, Dr. Kennedy addressed the role country conditions experts play in immigration court proceedings and their significance in asylum outcomes. The training was especially necessary for faculty who hoped to assist those seeking asylum but did not have the particular knowledge of the asylum court system processes. Faculty attended from DePaul, Northwestern, and UIC.

Speaker: Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy (DMC Practitioner in Residence)

Meet the DMC Migration Experts (November 3, 2023)

DePaul Migration Collaborative’s inaugural Practitioners in Residence, Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy and Rob Paral, as they discuss their impactful work supporting migrants and asylum seekers. Dr. Kennedy focuses on human rights, gender, and migration in Central America, producing research and training for immigrant-serving organizations. Rob Paral, a policy consultant, specializes in demographic insights and community needs, using data-driven approaches to assist Chicago's migrant communities.

Speakers: Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy and Rob Paral (DMC Practitioners in Residence)

Inaugural Immigration Summit (April 11, 2022)

The day-long conference brought together scholars, advocates, students and practitioners from the midwest and beyond to share research and insights on significant developments in migration and human rights. 54% of attendees were DePaul alumni, almost all who work in immigration law or with community organizations that serve immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers, 27% of attendees were community practitioners, and 19% were DePaul faculty. The majority of attendees were online – 77%, 23% were in-person. 80% of attendees were highly satisfied and 20% were satisfied with the conference. 65% of attendees found the conference to be very relevant, 27% found it relevant.

The aim of the Summit is to build bridges between professors, community partners, faith leaders, and others who are actively engaging and serving Chicago’s immigrant community. Feedback was very positive for achieving goals to: Lay the foundation for future collaborations at DePaul and in the Chicagoland area; Build bridges between scholars and community partners who are actively engaging and serving Chicago’s immigrant community, and Bring together the diverse faculty across many colleges at DePaul who study these issues.