Unite Against Racism: Immigration Race and the Future of the American Dream

Join a conversation on immigration, race, and belonging with Carmen Patlán, Executive Director of the Center for Immigrant Progress

This Unite Against Racism event aims to connect our community with transformational leaders working to advance equity, justice, and opportunity.

In this program, we welcome Carmen Patlán, Executive Director of the Center for Immigrant Progress in Waukegan, IL, in conversation with Roger Moreano, YWCA Evanston-North Shore’s Senior Director of Institutional and Community Equity.

Together, they will explore the history and lived realities of immigration in the United States, including immigration enforcement policies across administrations, the role of race and nationalism in shaping attitudes toward immigrants, and the challenges facing immigrant individuals and families today. The conversation will also highlight the resilience of immigrant communities and the importance of building systems of support that expand opportunity and dignity for all.

Healing Illinois is funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services in partnership with The Field Foundation of Illinois and YWCA Evanston/North Shore.

The program will conclude with an audience Q&A session.

🗓️Date: April 29, 2026
🕕Time: 6:00–7:30 PM
📍Location: YWCA Evanston/North Shore, 1215 Church Street
🏷️Fee: FREE and open to the public ($15 suggested donation)

QUESTIONS? CONTACT:

Roger Moreano (he/him/él), Senior Director of Institutional and Community Equity, at rmoreano@ywca-ens.org.

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About Equity Institute

YWCA Evanston/North Shore’s Equity Institute is dedicated to promoting racial equity at all levels. In order to do so, we engage with individuals, community groups, and institutions. Our full range of training & education, community engagement programs, racial equity resources, and annual events offers opportunities for all to develop the knowledge and resources to move towards racial equity.

About YWCA Evanston/North Shore

YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. Established in 1931, YWCA Evanston/North Shore is one of 194 local YWCA associations across the country and a part of one of the oldest and largest multicultural women’s organizations in the world. Through comprehensive, trauma-informed direct services, education and training, and community partnerships, we advance our mission across four key areas: Domestic Violence, Racial and Gender Equity, Economic Advancement, and Aquatics. These efforts aim to build stronger, more equitable communities and a future rooted in justice and dignity. Learn more at ywca-ens.org.