TAMALES FOR SALE!!!

JIFM-UH WILL BE SELLING:
HOMEMADE TAMALES (BEEF, CHICKEN AND CHEESE)

JIFM-UH Tamales Sale
Set-up Time: 9:30-10:00
Thursday the 1st of December
PGH Breezeway
10a -2p

Meeting at Donajih’s House to make the TAMALES:
5 Minutes from UH.
Take Elgin North, It will convert into Lockwood Dr.
Make a Turn on Right on Polk St,
Then Right on Dumble St.
Turn on Clay St. Arrive at 4733 Clay, 77023. First house on the right.
For more Information call: 832-455-4074 Donajih

Shift Schedule: 10-2
It is imperative that you commit to the time you Volunteered, we are counting on you!!
Donajih 9:30-10-30
Rafa 10-12
Sandra 10-?
Tatiana 12:30-1
Albert ?
Marisol 1-2
Julita 1-2
Anyone else let us know WHAT TIME YOU ARE AVAILABLE… ASAP

Items Donated:
Please keep in mind that the items must be dropped of EARLY at set-up time (9:30am) or be taken to Donajih’s House the day before!!!

1. Water Bottles- Donajih
2. Chopped Lettuce or tomatoes- Julita
3. Plates-Albert
4. Napkins / Forks- Melissa
5. Gloves for sanitary use- Jose
6. Salsa (green or red)- Donajih
7. Baked Goods (pan dulce or brownies)- Julita, Jesus,
8. Cokes- Rafa
9. Posters promoting the Sale- Sandra, Donajih
10. Hot pan / Microwave- Donajih
11. Cooler-Julita
12. Foil- Julita
13. Brown paper Bags (to go) Jose
14. Extension Cord- Albert and Rafa

If you are working on a poster, the following are a couple of things you can add to the poster.

JIFM-UH
TAMALES FOR SALE
$1 Tamales (salsa, lettuce and tomatoes:optional)

50 cent sodas
75 cents bottled water
50 Brownies and
75 Pan Dulce

Hope to see everyone there.
Keep a LOOK out for our JIFM-UH t-shirts, soon for sale!!

JIFM-UH

If nobody fights for our DREAM nobody else will!!!

When writing becomes a great resource!

Hi Jóvenes!

I can't believe the weekend is almost over, but everything has to come to an end... which means back to work!
Knowing that we have the march on top of us, i have begun harrasing my family with letters asking them to make gifts to JIFM- that is: to donate. No seriously.. they always ask me how can they help in my education, so the day came when they can help...LOL!
We have city permits to pay for when we march- the money is not 20 bucks.. it is much more than that. Yes, we have the T-shirts coming and the tamale sale which will help, but they won't be enough, so i am asking you to take that extra step and begin your personal fundraising!

Here is my sample letter- i did two versions because i have to send one in Spanish and one in English to the cousins. You'll be surprised on the positive response that you will receive. This the idea... i added more personal stuff to make them feel it and write that check, but that is just my nature.. it was good stuff too :-)

This is a personal decision, i know that you might feel like this might be a burden to your family, and i initially felt like that, but after talking to a few of them i realized how much they really wanted to help out, even if it is five bucks guys. It is up to you.

Spanish:
el 24 de noviembre del 2005
Querido Tio______________,

Como ustedes saben estoy estudiando psicología en la universidad de Houston. Precisamente el año antes que me gradué de la preparatoria en el 2001- se aprobó la ley que ahora me permite estudiar a pesar de mi estatus migratorio: H.B. 1403 que nos permite a los estudiantes indocumentados en Texas asistir a la universidad pagando cuotas residenciales. El dilema que enfrentamos es que va a pasar con nuestros titulos una vez nos graduemos si no podemos ejercer nuestras carreras profesionales de una forma legal.

Por esta razón nos hemos organizado un grupo de estudiantes formando nuestra propia lucha para que se legalize una reforma llamada DREAM Act ante el congreso de los Estados Unidos. Esta reforma migratoria legalizaria el estatus de 65,000 estudiantes que nos graduamos en todo el país anualmente. Nuestra organización se llama Jóvenes Inmigrantes Por Un Futuro Mejor: http://www.uhjifm.org/. Les hago una cordial invitación para que donen a nuestra lucha la cuál servirá para cubrir los gastos de los permisos que pide la ciudad para efectuar nuestra marcha que se llevará a cabo próximamente en el centro de Houston. La marcha es con el propósito de incrementar el apoyo de la comunidad y de la prensa sobre este tema de si… dignidad…. pero más importante todavia: EDUCACION! La donación puede ser en efectivo o en cheque para Jóvenes Inmigrantes Por Un Futuro Mejor @ UH.

Muchas Gracias.

Julita Rincón Corona

English:

Dear__________

As you know I am currently studying psychology at the University of Houston. Precisely the year before that I graduated from High School in 2002, House Bill 1403 was passed in Texas-, which allows undocumented students such as myself to attend college and pay in-state tuition. The dilemma that I, along with thousands face is what is to happen to our degrees if we cannot legally pursue our degrees in this country.

As a result, I, along with many other students have begun our own fight in order to advocate strongly for the DREAM Act- a piece of legislation that would grant undocumented students temporary residency under certain requirements and eventually allow us to pursue our professional careers. Currently, 65,000 students graduate annually and are unable to pursue their dreams in colleges because of our “illegal status” in great part of the USA. The DREAM Act would change this. Our organization called: Jóvenes Inmigrantes Por Un Futuro Mejor- Young Immigrants For A Better Future http://www.uhjifm.org/ is cordially inviting you to make a gift which would cover the city permits for our future march taking place in Houston. The purpose of the march is to increase awareness among our community and the press on this issue, which is an issue of, yes… dignity, but most importantly: EDUCATION! Your donation can be made in cash or in check payable to Jóvenes Inmigrantes Por Un Futuro Mejor @ UH.

Thank you,

Julita Rincón

Sign the Dream Act Petition

Hey guys this is such a cool website. Not only can you sign a petition, but you can contact President Bush, read up about the Dream Act, and visit immigration forums.

Sign this petition. we need to make our voices heard. It's easy. Just click on the link below and click on the button that says ClickHere .

http://www.immigration.com/improving_immigration/dreamact.html

Send a 'Thank You' to the Senators who introduced the DREAM Act

Hey Jovenes
Here is a quick and easy way to say THANKS to Senator Durbin and Hagel for introducing the DREAM Act.
You can write your own personal message or just send the one already written.
It just takes a couple of minutes.

http://www.demaction.org/dia/organizations/NILC/campaign.jsp?campaign_KEY=1551&t=DREAM%20blank.dwt

Some memories from demonstration

planning to meet woolridge
Originally uploaded by juli_juli.

What's going on Jovenes?

I get to post some pictures from last week's demonstration... Here we were getting ready to meeting Woolridge since he decided that his initial place of demonstrating was not one where students would listen.. ha!

Are you ready?! I am not hallucinating

What is going on JIFM!

Ready? Are you really ready to read what you are about to?! One more thing before i go on... these news don't mean that we slack off in our fight. Today, now more than ever we should keep up the fight stronger than ever before.

So this is what i was holding on to until Monday because we were not supposed to post anything until Monday according to NILC. I got this mesage Friday, Friday the 18th but I had to hold on to the news until today.... I waited until 12 AM to post this.

Enough of this now... read below and go crazy, write your reactions so that we can read your reactions and love it:)

My reaction: Who hooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

If we don't fight for our DREAM nobody else will!

-JRC

Great news! This afternoon, a bipartisan group of Senators officially introduced the DREAM Act of 2005, giving new life to legislation that has been in a holding pattern since the beginning of the year.

The sponsor of the DREAM Act of 2005 is Richard Durbin (D-IL), and the lead Republican cosponsors are Chuck Hagel (R-NE) and Richard Lugar (R-IN). The other original cosponsors are Norm Coleman (R-MN), Larry Craig (R-ID), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Mike DeWine (R-OH), Russ Feingold (D-WI), Edward Kennedy (D-MA), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Joseph Lieberman (D-CT), John McCain (R-AZ), and Barack Obama (D-IL).

It will become law if passed by both houses of Congress and signed by the President before the end of 2006.

Immigration Seminar - helpful?

Greetings from our library!

It is a day of catching up with school work indeed. Genesis and I just left the immigration seminar because it was just not helpful to us. While i asked the lawyer several questions regarding the status of undocumented students who hold no status whatsoever.... he basically said that we should just pray because the HI-B visa( the worker certification visa- one that would grant you a working visa after you have obtained your bachelors degree and you have an employer willing to sponsor you) is just not valid for you unless you have a status of any kind- that is, if you hold a tourist status for example. So, if you are like me... you have fallen out of status, hold no current companion or tourist visa or anything of the sort then this HI-B visa is no good to you.

I have a hard copy of the power point presentation since our technology died during the presentation in case anyone wants a copy. Let me know and i can get hard copies and give them to you in our next meeting.

Yes, nothing new we didn't know was explained to us. We left however knowing some information that we didn't know before. Note*** i was a little burned when he praised the guest worker program, all i was thinking is how can he support a "bracero" program. I asked him about the pros and cons of the program, but he failed to answer my questions. Maybe i was a little jumpy though, i couldn't believe his words.

Kuddos to Rebecca who hosted us with refreshments. I saw some Jóvenes there, so i am glad that you all found this more helpful to you... maybe- i hope so.

It has been a rough week--- but i have some news i am just supposed to hold on to until Monday morning. They are great news actually.... keep posted!

****One more note**** t-shirts are almost ready, i hope that you like them, they should be ready for the last meeting, so bring your cash:)- Dec 1st. Also, we have a tamale sale that day from 10-2 in PGH.

Peace... No wait... If we don't fight for our DREAM nobody else will!

-JRC

FRONT PAGE- COULD IT BE?

What's up JIFM and supporters,

Check it out, we are front page in the Daily Cougar. The Daily Cugar also reivindicated itself by posting Jose's letter in the opinion section after using his name twice this week in incorrect publications.

Reminder**** Today we are meeting in the library, back room-technology room in front of the UC to have a video conference, this is so exciting. Meet us at 5:15 PM outside, we then will be heading to the basement to have the conference at 5:30 PM.
Also, if you are able to make it at 2:30 PM today, Lilian needs us to contribute to her lecture in a social movement class she is teaching. It will be in AH building 1st floor. Call me, email me: jifmuhcentral@gmail.com to get you in touch with with her.***********

Peace.

-JRC

Activist sparks heated debate

By Barrett Goldsmith Senior Staff Writer

Instead, the object of their criticism, Frosty Wooldridge, an anti-immigration activist and author, set up shop in a drop-in expression area adjacent to the power plant and between the University Center and the M.D. Anderson Memorial Library. Wooldridge had planned to deliver a speech opposing mass immigration, specifically a 2001 Texas House bill that allows foreign-born, non-resident students to attend Texas universities and pay in-state tuition rates.
"I realized that there wasn't anyone (at the park) that was really interested in hearing what I had to say," he said. "So I just came over here to answer some questions for anyone who was interested."

Nearly 100 UH students protested against anti-immigration activist Frosty Wooldridge, who was on campus Wednesday to speak out against a controversial Texas House bill. A group of nearly 100 protesters marched along a grassy patch in Lynn Eusan Park on Wednesday, showing their opposition to a speech that never came.
______________________
Matt Dulin/The Daily Cougar
Eventually the crowd -- all the members of which seemed opposed to Wooldridge's message -- moved to the free speech zone, surrounding Wooldridge and Preston Wiginton, who organized the event. Many held signs, and a few groups of several dozen stood behind large ground-level banners.

Wooldridge spoke mainly of global politics and the way in which mass immigration negatively impacts a developed nation like the United States. The speech was planned as part of a six-school tour of Texas universities.

"I want to start a reasoned debate about the future of this country, a future that is in jeopardy from the constant wave of new people coming across our borders," Wooldridge said. "You have a country that's overpopulated and without the resource to help the people that are already here. We don't need to keep adding more people we don't have room for."
But the protesters seemed to take more issue with Wiginton, whose rhetoric was more fiery and accusatory. A large crowd coalesced around Wiginton and a Wooldridge supporter who would identify himself only as "George."

UH Police Department officers were on hand to ensure the safety of the participants, and at several points their presence may have prevented the debate from escalating into something else. At one point, Wiginton caused an uproar when he said European settlers were right to subdue the Native Americans with force, and that Manifest Destiny was a high point in the country's history.

But most of the debate remained civil, as the protesters disputed Wiginton's claims about the bill that favors non-resident students, which he argued should be overturned.
"This is not an immigration issue, this is an education issue," said Julia Rincon, president of Young Immigrants for a Better Future. "This is about giving people who have come to this country the chance to better themselves and contribute to society."

Student Government Association Speaker Pro-Tem Mark Annas, a member of the UH College Republicans, and Carlos Ayala of the UH Young Democrats were united in support of the bill.
"He called and asked if I would sponsor his petition against the bill, and I said ëno way,'" Annas said. "College Republicans won't support something that prevents people from getting an education."

Ayala said Wooldridge and Wiginton were incorrect in their assessment of the bill, pointing out that students must have lived in Texas and attended a Texas high school for at least three years to qualify for in-state tuition.

dcnews@mail.uh.edu

SUCCESSFUL DEMOSTRATION !!!

We had a great turn-out today!!!

First of all, THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO CAME OUT IN SUPPORT OF HB 1403 STUDENTS AND THE FIGHT FOR IMMIGRANT RIGHTS.

I was really excited to see a very diverse group debating with the anti-immigrant "author." Also, Mr. Winginton wasted his time and money in coming to UH. The UH community is so diverse and liberal and most importantly open-minded. UH students do not support racist actions and especially denying an education to all students no matter what their legal status might be.

I was especially glad to see people take initiatives on behalf of the organization.

Everyone check out Univision 45 tonight for a story on the demostration.

We will be posting pictures soon, so keep posted!!!

Thanks to all who helped with the Petitions we collected 257.

-Donajih Robles :) -

If we don't fight for our DREAM nobody else will! -julita rincon

URGENT, PLEASE COME!

The Daily COUGAR posted our letter. They also published a front page story on Woolridge speaking tomorrow and the rally awaiting.

Guys, we will be there. I just spoke to Maria Jimenez and she is doing a press release for us.

We will be also distributing FOR HB 1403 petitions and also..... we are having a fact sheet. Please spread the word, we need to get out there and get on the ball.

We cannot let this guy get away with his unsubstantial and hateful propaganda. This is a way to get our agenda out there and educate our classmates and coogs on this education issue. That is right.... this is and EDUCATION issue. We need to start somewhere.

We are also taking footage of this event, more for the documentary right?

Eusan Park is the platform that is next to the cullen administration building and students services bldg. As if you are going toward the Moody Towers. Call me with ?'s. Or email us, u know where.

Show up, its all peaceful rememeber that.

Peace.

-JRC

one more to the editorial

Hey Jóvenes,

I hope that your Monday has kicked off with blessings.
Lets see if the daily cougar posts something this week. They did however post Jose's name under a letter to the editor, they messed up- it was not Jose's letter.

I am sharing mine with you today. Thanks Tacho and Lilian:) I just sent it and i don't know if it'll get published or not, but it is getting posted in our blog.

-JRC

To the editor,

I doubt that most of our student body and staff at the University of Houston are aware of the number of students that attend college under House Bill 1403. It is even more surprising to know of those students that attend our university not knowing themselves that they are House Bill 1403 students.

This past Thursday, November 17th our university newspaper published an ad that was petitioning against House Bill 1403.

What is House Bill 1403? House Bill 1403 is a residency bill that allows us, undocumented students, to pay in-state tuition. In order to qualify for this bill one must have graduated from a Texas High School, lived in the state of Texas for three years or more, and provide the university with an affidavit of intent to become a permanent resident.

The ad published by our newspaper was one with hateful and racist essence.

My question to the staff is: Do they know who Preston Wiginton is? Are you aware of his racist rampages? If one goes to his petition website http://www.petitionagainsthb1403.com/ one can also arrive to places of hate-mongers that target African America elected officials and Latinos. Mr. Wiginton turned off his blog which had images against African Aid for example as soon as we exposed his identity to the public.

In a way, I thank Mr. Wiginton, as he calls himself, for exposing the usual clichés in his ad- such as these illegal immigrants are taking jobs away from Americans, they do not pay taxes, they receive scholarships, and financial aid. My answer to his arguments Mr. Wiginton and UH: Is that we are not taking jobs from Americans because we simply cannot work in our own fields once we graduate and we do pay taxes, in fact The New York Times published earlier this year "... illegal immigrant workers in the United States are now providing the system with a subsidy of as much as $7 billion a year....Moreover, the money paid by illegal immigrants and their employers is factored into all the Social Security Administration's projections." We are not just contributing to the Social Security Administration but we also pay into Medicare taxes, $1.5 billion a year. Plus living in this capitalist society, many of the major corporations make billions of our spending power. Total consumer spending by the Hispanic population reached $531 billion in 2002. Thus, if Mr. Wiginton wants to question the financial aid that House Bill 1403 student receive, then let me make it clear that the funds available to us are not federal aid; on a first come first serve basis some of us may receive funds from a Texas Grant. This is not a privilege, it is our right!

Let’s step away from the usual cliché: these students were brought here by their parents, we cannot blame them for their parent’s decision. I thank my parents for bringing me to this country. We came here for the reasons that everybody else comes, to have a better life, a better education. It is time to take responsibility for our actions and stop playing the blaming game.

Did the staff in the daily cougar bother to find out who he was and what his background was? Is our newspaper, a tax-funded newspaper in that much need of monetary aid that they are willing to post hateful ads? I understand and am for free speech, but what about standards? Isn’t this supposed to be a newspaper training future journalists? Does UH really want all HB1403 students to attend another university? Or have these students do without an education?

The issue exposed here is an education issue. The fact of the matter is that we, undocumented students are attending universities all over the nation. In our university there are roughly 300 House Bill 1403 students. Hint to our friend Preston, it is not 146 students at UH, it is more than that you see. We are graduating from college and cannot obtain jobs in our careers because we are said to be “illegal”. Every year, it is estimated that 65,000 students graduate from high schools that are also undocumented. Currently, our organization at UH-Jóvenes Inmigrantes Por Un Futuro Mejor-Young Immigrants For A Better Future is advocating for the DREAM Act- a piece of legislation that would legalize our status and allow us the space to continue our careers. We are working with many grassroots organizations across the state and the country to educate everyone on this issue; I begin here today, in my university newspaper.

Julita Rincón

Letters to the editorial and more

Hi JIFM,- what's going on?

I know, one more week, i think the weekend wasn't long enough, but we got one more letter that is going to the editorial this week. This is Summer's letter below, she emailed it to us. If you wanna do the same for others to read them submit it to us : jifmuhcentral@gmail.com

The stories/ letters would ideally be submitted this week early so that they can publish something ideally Tuesday or Thursday, the days when more students are on campus, lets strategize guys!

Also, Dos Centavos blog posted more information about the dude that paid the hateful ad in the daily cougar, take a look at what Dos Centavos tells us: http://dos-centavos.blogspot.com/2005/11/preston-wiginton.html

Thanks Tacho!

-JRC

I am outraged at the fact the daily cougar published such an incorrect and disrespectful article about HB1403 students. People who benefit under the HB1403 are not simply illegals. We are Americans. We came to America when we were young, we grew up in America.

We are educated under the same system as every American out there. We gather and fight for our rights even if we are labeled as ¡§illegals¡¨. We are Americans in every sense of the word except the approval of the government. Therewere numerous inaccuracies in that article.

First of all, most people who qualify under the HB1403 do not qualify for government aid and grants.

The same people who qualify for HB1403 cannot work legally even if they get their degrees after college. HB1430 cannot take jobs away in the fields of Engineering and Medicine because they simply will not be hired. We are not taking taxpayer¡¦money by attending school, we pay our own tuition. No one should be denied a chance of education.

What is the meaning of being an American? The meaning of being an American is to have an opportunity for the pursuit of a better life, a better future. HB1403 students are not illegals, we are people who are fighting for a better future just like you. We
are the people who are studying hard in the library, the girl who is sitting next to you in math class. Therefore, I am not only outraged, but also disappointed at the fact that the Daily Cougar would allow such an article to be published.

Mark your calendars.........

What's up JIFM,

Tomorrow is the footbal game at UH. Join us after a week of stressful events. Tomorrow Sunday!
Talking about stressful events... please let us know how your editorial to the daily cougar is going. We hope that this got you pumping and got you to do some writing, in any case, something will be published, we'll make sure it happens.

Here is a couple of events going on this coming week. Both i recommend highly. The gatherings at Rice Media center are always really good- there is always a talk to discuss the movie and you get to hear many different perspectives.

The second event hosted by the socialist party i also recommend. You want to get your dose of socialism... (hope not to get arrested/deported after i post this...LOL)

Hope you have a great weekend. I know i will:)

-JRC
*************************************************
1-
The Houston Independent Media Center is pleased to continue theirscreenings of cutting edge films of social and justice issues with filmsabout Migration and Immigrant Rights, at 8:00 p.m. on November 15th, 2005at the Rice Media Center.

Houston Indymedia and the Immigrant CoalitionAgainst Vigilantes and Intolerance, for Respect and Compassion have teamedup in sponsoring an evening of films that will explore the complexdynamics of immigration in a globalized world.

The evening will include 4 documentaries that examine the forces that cause migration, US borderpolicy, the emergence of right wing, anti-migrant militias, and socialmovements for a just immigration and economic systems.

Films to be Screened:UPROOTED: Refugees of the Global EconomyNew World BorderRights on the Line: Vigilantes on the Border Woomera Breakout

When: Tuesday, Nov 15th, 8pm
Where: Rice Cinema Entrance #8 University and StocktonMore details and film descriptions:http://houston.indymedia.org/news
*********************************************************************************************
2-
Militant Labor Forum presents:
Behind the rebellion in France
North African immigrants take to the streets in protest of racism and cop Brutality

Tens of thousands of youth from working class immigrant families in France have joined in protests in 300 cities across France demanding an end to racist and anti-immigrant policies of the French government. Some 6 million citizens of North African descent live in segregated, overcrowded housing in areas the government dubs “sensitive urban zones”. There the unemployment rate is close to double the national rate, while for 21-29 year-olds it’s 30%. This widespread protest movement has thrown the government into a crisis. On November 12, the government invoked the 1955 law used by French imperialism in its war against the Algerian anti-colonial movement.

Join us in a discussion on the origins of this resistance today. Also, we will be showing video clips on the background to the movie “Battle of Algiers”. That film accurately depicted the powerful Algerian independence movement led by workers and farmers fed up with the daily humiliation they faced from the colonizers.
Speaker: Steve Warshell, Socialist Workers Party
Friday, November 18, Program 7:30 p.m.
4800 W. 34th St., Suite C-51A
(34th St. exit off of 290, or TC Jester exit off of 610 North Loop):
$5 for program.
For more information call (713) 869 6550
************************************************************************************************

It takes something like this

This morning, Yazmin- a high school student with whom i keep in touch submitted this piece to us. I met Yazmin through a high school counselor this semester, she then came to a meeting and we stay in touch since then. She recceived the email about the ad just like you all did. I am happy to see the response of Jose, Lupita, Tatiana, and everybody else who has gotten on top of this issue.

I admire her character. I admire the character that you all bring to JIFM. This is why we do what we do..... Check it out:

Many people regard immigrants as “parasites”, mere subjects who invade the country only to consume and destroy the land as Harry Huang, a student at Bellaire, thinks. As parasites, we are “subservient and labor for minimum wage as janitors and maids.” From this unpleasant outlook, my dreams and aspirations become abridged from reality; this fact leaves a bitter taste of impotence; nevertheless it teaches me the values of education that come from enduring the hardship and makes me put twice as much effort to accomplish goals. Any job is respectable including those of a janitor and maid but we are capable and willing to do so much more than that.

Being an undocumented student has placed many adversities in my path. On many instances, I have thought enthusiastically about the future and of infinite ways to be somebody, only to bring myself upon a barrier too great even for my desires to overcome it. This summer, chosen out of a group of the most diligent students at an institute of math, I was expected to work as an intern for a sponsoring company to gain experience in the field of engineering. I diligently worked on my resume, I was prepared for the job interview, and everything seemed to be in place. There was only one problem: I was an illegal immigrant student. I was turned down when the director learned of my legal status. I had anticipated rejection, but knowing this opportunity is given to a small number of students, I refused to let that stop me from trying, hoping for a small fracture in the barrier. It was impossible.

Preston Wiginton in his “Petition Against HB1403” does not realize that we would be doing him a favor. Mr. Wiginton, WE make America (“Texas for Texas/America for Americans”). It is true that immigrants take jobs that are too hard for Americans, but it is also true that EDUCATED immigrants would be more productive helping boost the economy and standards of the U.S. with a wave of new ideas that the country needs, opening more doors to the world. Does it make sense to deny education to people who are willing to do WHATEVER it takes to acquire it? No, it doesn’t especially not if it means benefits for the country.

I feel deprived of opportunities, the same opportunities that AMERICAN CITIZENS waste and/or deny. Because I am confident of the potential I possess, I could not bear to be thought of as a parasite much less function as one. It is inevitable, then, to persevere and do twice of what it takes to educate myself even if it’s not the liking of an American citizen. In the future, I see myself contributing, not consuming, and creating, not destroying, as an engineer, not a maid.

ITS B A N A N A S !!!!

ITS B A N A N A S !!!!
Originally uploaded by donajih_robles.

AFTER A VERY UPSETING DAY WITH THE WHOLE "AD" THING.

THE DAY ENDED IN A GOOD NOTE.

THE BLACK EYE PEAS WERE MY FAVORITE!!!!

GWEN SANG A SONG THAT SHE HELPED COMPOSE WITH ANDRE 3000 FOR ROSA PARKS... SOUNDS GREAT!!!

Check out the daily cougar today! Something has to be done! WAKE UP!

Hi all,

I am working, but Melissa just called me and she has told me that there is an add on the daily cougar today, today: November 10th,which is advertsing against HB 1403. Check it out ... It is paid by some politician, but look into it if you are on campus and have a little time to get to a computer... comment here please, i want to know more about this.

If this is something that is indeed advertsing against H.B. 1403 then it is definitely something that we want to look more into and definitely write a rebuttal to the editorial. How can a university newspaper that has over 300 House Bill 1403 students be bought into this education issue?! I am outraged, I don't know about you, but you know who you are. You are an HB 1403 student just like me and if you want to sleep through this issue than go ahead, but more sooner than later you will wake up and realize how badly something needs to be done.

Anybody wants to take initiative? We can't afford to sleep on these issues anymore.

WAKE UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!

-JRC

XO 107.9 --

XO 107.9 --
Originally uploaded by donajih_robles.

O-SEA-NO..........

THESE NIGHT HAS BEEN ONE OF THE BEST EVENTS WITH FEEDBACK FROM THE HOUSTON COMMMUNITY. WE WERE EXTATIC TO HAVE HAD SO MANY CALLERS WANTING MORE INFORMATION.

NOT TO MENTION THE HOST WAS REALLY MOTIVATED TO HAVE THE TOPIC ON THE AIR.

DONAJIH TOOK THE PICTURE!!!

Steps for Success UHD

Steps for Success UHD4
Originally uploaded by donajih_robles.

Parents and students gathered around our display table to receive more information on H.B. 1403 and the DREAM Act. Jose did a very good job about explaining the paperwork an HB 1403 students has turn in. Over 300 students participated in this event.

This event was sponsord by Ford Motor Company and the Hispanic Scholarship Fund(unfortunately the fund does not give scholarships to undocumented students, eventhough they deserve it, just a side-note).

San Jacinto College - Immigration Awareness Day

SAN JACINTO5
Originally uploaded by donajih_robles.

Julita, Rick Noriega (District Rep. 145) and Donajih were guest speakers at the event. We had a great time, we talked to lots of parents and encouraged them to help their kids continue their education.

How Julita escaped the hands of HPD

Hi Jóvenes....

This a story based on pure facts... no fiction- there are witnesses to back me up.

Last night Donajih, Jesus her husband and i hung out in this downtown spot, we then ended the night with joy and all ready to go home. We then each took off in our respective vehicles.

As i was driving off on Elgin and Travis a taxi cab hit me out of nowhere. This due to the lights not working and no traffic control working whatsoever at the time. Not to mention the dude was going at 1000 per hour.

I was okay, but i was then really not worried about having a stiffed neck or a broken whatever. The whole time i was worried about not getting HPD involved and BS'ing my way out of it with the taxi cab driver.

To my misfortune, one officer on bike and one security on bike came right behind us. After a whole hour of waiting for HPD officers to come and do the report, the taxi cab driver and i decided to arrange it on the side.

To my fortune i escaped the hands of HPD bureaucracy. Imagine this scenario: girl with no driver's license+ who is also undocumented= Huge ticket or subject to removal of vehicle. I got away and i still don't know how.

In the waiting, I called Donajih and Jesus who were just around the corner- they showed up to help me out through this. I thank my friends for this gesture. We got some footage of this accident to present to our potential documentary. No, i didn't get arrested although Jesus was asking the police officer to do it in order to make our footage more interesting... LOL. We also talked to Officer Gabriel who was so supportive when i explained him my situation. He gave us more information on who we can get in touch when trying to pull more people for the march coming up.

The point of this ordeal was: Until when should we be more worried about receiving that huge ticket or having our cars taken away because we don't have a driver's license rather than worrying abou our own well-being?

This is just not right.

At the end though, i was just thankful to be okay. The accident could have been so much worse, believe me!

Flickr

This is a test post from , a fancy photo sharing thing.

"me" is Donajih, jejejeje

I didn't mention who "me" was in the previous post.

I hope everyone had a great weekend. I relaxed, mas que nada, sola.

I ask that if anyone wants to help with the HISD board meeting research to not hesitate in calling me or e-mailing me at drodriguez8@uh.edu. Hearing will be Dec 8th.

Also just a reminder that every officer has to locate a central place for the JIFM-UH Parent Committee 1st Meeting. Is anyone else taking the lead on this?
Becuse, I feel the topic was really not discussed Or should assume Mrs. Silva is going to take the lead?



____________________________________________________

Anyway I went to the "PULGA" today sunday, It had been awhile since I went to the on off of 59S. I was amazed of how many "raza" I saw. Maybe cause I wasen't expecting to see too many people. My sister and I walked around, got tiered, ate fresh cut fruit and heard DURANGENSE music at the "family" club they had inside, they had a live band, when i say "family" i mean it, little kids were dancing on the pista, looked really cute. This was a reallity check, about he existance of crowded "PULGAS"

Maybe we could go to the pulgas and pass out JIFM-UH information to the people.

Okay sleepy time for me,

Donajih:)

Homecoming Week @UH

The week of November 7 – 13, 2005 is University of Houston Homecoming Week and a variety of exciting events are planned for your enjoyment. All events are FREE!!

The following is the list of the Homecoming 2005 activities:

Monday, November 7, 2005
Homecoming Kick-Off - University Center Arbor 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 pm.Cougars Full Throttle…Let the good times ROAR!! A great way to start the homecoming week and find out who is on this year’s Homecoming Court. Gulf Coast Cougar Reception – University Center Arbor5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Join me to find out if I made the COURT!!! Im nervous... hay lo que Dios quiera:)

Tuesday, November 8, 2005
HC Celebration – UC Satellite11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. – Music and Promos! A Cougar Showcase – Hofheinz PavilionThis inaugural event will showcase the traditional Strut Your Stuff program, a Football pep rally,the UH Marching Band and Spirit Squads, and an introduction/preview of the 2005-2006 Cougar men’s and women’s basketball teams.

Wednesday, November 9, 2005 WEAR RED DAY!
Spirit Day and Pep Rally – Cullen Family Plaza11:30 – 1:00 p.m. Pep Rally at 12 Noon! Join other students, faculty and staff for the annual spirit day activities.Free hot dogs! 30 minutes of Pep, Power and Cougar Spirit with Coach Briles, the UH Pep Band and Spirit Squads. The tradition of rubbing the Cougar Paw revealed! Poetry Slam – World Affairs Lounge, University Center Underground7:00 p.m.

Thursday, November 10, 2005
Residential Life and Housing (RL&H)Beauty Bowl – RL&H Soccer FieldBlock Party - RL&H Basketball Courts5:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.

Friday, November 11, 2005
Homecoming Concert – Houston Room, University Center7:00 p.m.

Sunday, November 13, 2005 Make sure you get your FREE tickets!!!
HOMECOMING (HC) GAME DAY – Robertson Stadium
2:00 p.m. – Band – Robertson Stage
2:30 p.m. – Golf Cart Parade
3:30 p.m. – HC Awards and Introduction of Homecoming Court
4:00 p.m. – Kick – off
Half-time – Announcement of HC King and Queen

End of week thoughts

Hi Jóvenes,

Greetings from our UH library. These tests are becoming a burden on Friday nights.

I wanted to take some time and thank all those who participated in this week's events. There were quite a lot, but we have been blessed with the committment of several Jóvens who never fail to show up.

We had a very wet Monday at the Halloween Fest and from then we moved Tuesday at San Jacinto college where we presented with Representative Rick Noriega- that was a good night! Thursday we had an officer's meeting and came to more concrete terms as far as when the march will be taking place- we are looking at February 18th, so mark it down. Then some of us headed to Eastwood Academy after the meeting- which also went well, we got so much more footage for our documentary.
It was incredible-- well, let me rephrase that... i was no longer surprised to hear how many college reps that come to present to these high schools of predominantly Latino students where many parents who also come and do not speak English.... and we still have these reps who many times speak Spanish and choose not to do so. This baffles me! The issue that no longer surprises me however is how many of these college reps do not know anything about House Bill 1403 or the DREAM Act.

What kind of information would they give to our students and parents who need to know how to enroll in college if many of them are in our situation? I have to mention however, that some reps did know their stuff, so props to them.

After the Eastwood presentation some of us hung out and then headed to the radio station. Thanks to Donajih, Tatiana, Genesis, and Sandra who were there to speak so amazingly and eloquently to the callers who had questions. I am sure that you guys heard us, so tell us what you thought of it. Vampiro was so great in giving us that space to talk and spread this information that so badly needs to be heard. Guys, the phones were going crazy, we have received so many calls throughout the day of people who wish to be involved, had comments, or more personal case questions. We are no experts on this, but i feel that we have done a great job.

It has been a very active and long week. We got through it, but wouldn't you love to be a part of it? It really is empowering to see the eyes of a parent or high school student who suddenly finds out that he or she can in fact go to college. Even better when they know that there is a light which gives us hope that our studies won't in fact be taken for granted.

I am out for this weekend. Post comments guys, this is your forum so to speak to express your concerns or suggestions, whatever is on your mind.
I leave however thanking once again all those who participated, posted something on their blogs about us, emailed, txt messaged, or called us to find out what was going on, or to give us some moral support.

Remember that the last thing that dies is hope!

-JRC

Presentation at High School

MILBY
Originally uploaded by uhjifm.

This was the presentation at Milby High School during the College Career Night.

Here we have Melissa talking to an Army recruiter who was interested in receiving more information regarding the DREAM Act and House Bill 1403.

More pictures will be uploaded with time.

Wait for them.

Radio Station Tomorrow

Hey JIFM,

We will be on the radio station XO 107.9 FM tomorrow November 3rd at 11PM.

DJ Vampiro called a little while ago to confirm. We hope that you guys can tune in if you can't accompany us physically.

We have to get there a little earlier than 11 PM.

That is it for tonite.

More questions, concerns... let us know please!

A Nostalgic Post

Hi Jóvenes,

I don't know who reads this. Few people leave comments. Sometimes i feel that i, along with few others are the only ones that read this blog- which is cool. I wish though that more of you were willing to share more, but i suppose i will continue until i get somebody tired of saying the same stuff and then he or she will decide to write. I meant that in a funny way btw.

I just want to acknoweledge DIA DE LOS MUERTOS/THE DAY OF THE DEAD. I know that not everyone who reads this is Mexican or of Mexican descent, and i won't go into the whole explanation of the meaning of this day. This day may have more meaning for some rather than others. I just wanted to say that.

Today though, i remember mi abuelo. Today I remember my brothers and sisters and today is eight years from not seeing them. It is eight years that i don't see the place where i was born and eight years of being the aunt from the picture and the voice on the phone.
Unfortunately, a lot of us have been prived from a lot of things because of our situation. The heart is always with them however.

Who do you remember today? What do you remember today?

I was going to post an article that came on the Washington Post, but i then felt that maybe we wanted to chill from that-at least from tonite.

Some business has got to be posted however:

***Eastwood High School Presentation tomorrow Thursday at 6:30 PM.
Some of us are heading there after the meeting at 4:00 PM which is taking place
in the UC Claudette Room. Remember that this is a meeting open to anybody who wants to bring anything to the group's attention. Or even if you just want to drop by and say what's up.If you need direction or any more questions on how to get there, please call us or emai us: jifmuhcentral@gmail.com**************

-JRC

False Alarm!

Hola Jóvenes,

My apologies for the contrasting text messages. I sent to all whom i have on my cell.

Last night, or one of the past sleepless nights i emailed the DJ from XO Radio. Vampiro- that is his name; he touches on very different issues everynight at 11 PM.

I then wrote him telling him about our organization, the dilemma, and the laws that are currently pending. I then urged him to press on this issue. I wasn't expecting him to respond so soon, but as Donajih, Rafa, and I were walking to the car from the San Jacinto presentation (which was amazing by the way, but that will be another post)- the dude calls and he is very interested in having us on air.

We then drove to the station. We thought we were going to be on tonite, but we talked, we told him about what is the deal and we talked some more.

The deal is that we will be on. It will either be this Thursday, or this coming Monday. Reason being- that gives him time to promote the issue beforehand and that way more listeners will be aware. Yes, it will be late at night, late meaning 11 PM. It will be one whole hour to talk to people who need this information.

San Jacinto event----- Great!!!!!!! Rick Noriega showed up. The guy delivered. I had never seen him give platicas, but he gave a good one considering our audience. Although i think he would have gotten through better had he spoken Spanish to that part of the congregation, but that is just my opinion.

Donajih and Rafa delivered amazingly as always.

Great speech Donají! Thanks for the camera work Rafa.

I am out of commission for tonite.

--JRC:-)

Morning article

Good morning JIFM,

An article to get us started this morning. Don't forget, today we have the event at San Jacinto North Campus, we emailed you about this.
Anyhow, 5800 Uvalde. Donajih along with other members will be there this morning starting at 11:30 AM.
The second part starts at 5:30 PM, same place.

Great day!

Juli

ID: DREAM Act proposes to allow undocumented residents to pay in-state tuition The Arbiter (Idaho State University), October 31, 2005
By Micah McLaughlin

Boise State students and organizations support reintroduction of the DREAM Act to the Idaho Senate. The DREAM (Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors) Act is a piece of bipartisan federal legislation that would allow undocumented residents who have lived in the United States since before they were 16 years old to pay in-state tuition at universities and colleges. As of now, undocumented students pay approximately $11,000 a year to attend BSU. This is often more than the income of undocumented residents.

Under the DREAM Act, undocumented resident minors would be allowed a six-year residency period in which they must complete one of the following: a two-year degree, two years toward a degree, two years of military service or a 910-hour period of community service.

Idaho Senators Larry Craig and Mike Crapo are cosponsoring the legislation along with others such as Utah Republican Sen. Orrin Hatch. ICAN (Idaho Community Action Network), OELA (Organización de Estudiantes Latino-Americanos) and the IPSA (Idaho Progressive Student Aliance) all support the DREAM Act.

ICAN has taken a leading role in promoting it through the Student Speaker’s Tour. The IPSA, on the other hand, has taken a mainly supportive role by aiding ICAN and OELA; however it can, according to Megan Egbert, IPSA vice president. The Student Speaker’s Tour is a program through which students affected by issues of undocumented residency address communities in order to educate them on those issues. The goal is to bring awareness to and gain support from communities. According to Fernando Mejia, ICAN’s secretary, issues of undocumented residency affect approximately 65,000 students a year. The DREAM Act will reduce the difficulty many students have in getting higher education, Majia said.

“Every single human being should have an opportunity for a better education,” said Mejia.
The DREAM Act will also help undocumented students by giving them a viable path toward citizenship, according to Mejia. He also pointed out that communities benefit from having undocumented residents educated. “[The] only way to improve the community is to educate,” said Mejia.

The DREAM Act was originally introduced in July 2003. In its current form it would repeal section 505 of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996. Section 505 effectively discourages states from aiding students by providing in-state tuition rates. Students must retain good standing under its conditions to qualify. That is, those students that have committed crimes or have been deemed a security risk are ineligible. The DREAM Act focuses on education and pairs well with more widely known McCain-Kennedy cosponsored legislation regarding comprehensive immigration reform, according to Mejia. Mejia said nine million people immigrate to the United States and only 10,000 visas are issued.

“We don’t want to forget the big picture,” said Mejia.

“We are all human beings.”

******************************