Nalini Krishnankutty
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WORKSHOPS/PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS

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HOW IMMIGRANTS SHAPE(D) THE UNITED STATES
What do we mean by a "nation of immigrants?" This workshop introduces participants to all the processes that created our nation, including colonization, conquest, annexation, slavery, indentured servitude and migration. It offers a peek into the history of the United States with a focus on immigration and a glimpse of what the United States would be like without the contribution of its first-generation immigrants.
Appropriate for students in schools and colleges, teacher and librarian trainings and in-service, staff diversity training in businesses, community and church groups.
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For school and community audiences, this workshop focuses on how immigrants are often seen as the “other,” yet the United States is also described as a “nation of immigrants.” This presentation takes a revealing look at our immigration history, including who came here, why, and how they were received by those already here. The post arrival journey of first-generation immigrants, and their innovative contributions to the American experience are showcased – from founding the country to creating enduring ideas, art, and institutions that impact us to this day. Several examples of the historical and current contributions of immigrant entrepreneurs, leaders and philanthropists are shared, along with ideas, exercises, and bibliography to further understand the rich legacy of immigrants to the United States.
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For librarians, teachers, and writers, this workshop uses analysis of children's books to highlight the humanity, experiences and contributions of immigrants. The post-arrival journey of individual immigrants and their innovative contributions to the American experience is highlighted – from founding the country to creating enduring ideas, art, and institutions that have stood the test of time. Participants learn to analyze what/whose stories are included in the immigration experience, and to use books, online resources and crowdsourced projects to develop creative curriculum and programming that introduces children and adults to complete story of immigration to the United States. Workshops focusing on writers also highlight how to use the power of a writer's voice to explore all aspects of the immigrant experience.

PERPETUAL IMMIGRANTS: THE ASIAN AMERICAN EXPERIENCE
The first Asians arrived on the North American continent in 1763, but the history of Asians in the United States is not widely known - event today, they are often considered to be perpetual immigrants. This presentation explores the diverse experiences of Asian Americans over the years, and the many American ideas and institutions that they created. 

INTEGRATING THE HISTORY, EXPERIENCES AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF IMMIGRANTS INTO THE CURRICULUM
Currently one-fifth of children under 18 in the US are either immigrants or the children of immigrants. This workshop aimed at teachers, librarians and curriculum developers delves into the history of the United States, an analysis of what/whose stories are left out of the curriculum, and provides specific ideas to develop an inclusive curriculum. 

WRITING THE TRUTH OF IMMIGRANT CHARACTERS
Currently one-fifth of children under 18 in the US are either immigrants or the children of immigrants. This workshop aimed at writers delves into the history of the United States, an analysis of what/whose stories are left out in books printed today, and provides specific ideas to develop and empower themselves to write the truth of immigrant characters in their writings. 
The first Asians arrived on the North American continent in 1763, but the history of Asians in the United States is not widely known – even today, they are often considered to be perpetual immigrants. In this class, which falls during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we will explore the diverse experiences of Asian Americans over the years, as well as the many American ideas and institutions that are the contributions of Asian Americans.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, AND BEYOND
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) are currently on many people's minds. What do the words mean, and how can we put them into practice? This workshop will introduce DEI concepts, and provide examples of how we can apply them in real-life interactions. How can we go beyond these concepts to create an inclusive future which can be, for example, antiracist, and where everyone can experience a feeling of "belonging?"

What attendees have been saying:

  • "I learned so much - it was so relevant."
  • "It has changed my view on immigration forever."
  • "....wish my entire library system could have heard the presentation - it is so very relevant."
  • "Your research on this topic is rich with information that many did not realize or know about (including me) and your knowledge is invaluable."
  • "It completely changed how I listen to the news."
  • "This was so revealing. I am a history teacher, and so much of what you presented was unknown to me."
  • "You have given me so many ideas for inclusive programming focusing on diversity and immigrants for the coming year."​


​DO STAY IN TOUCH  - I look forward to hearing from you! 

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