National Immigration Law Center Freedom to Thrive Podcast

Ep. #203 Justice For All - Efrén Olivares

In this powerful Freedom to Thrive episode, Hector sits down with ​venerated human rights lawyer and Time Magazine honoree Efrén Olivares, NILC’s Vice President of Litigation and Legal Strategy. From childhood memories on the U.S.​ Mexico border to stopping the midnight deportation of unaccompanied children, Efren shares stories of justice, resistance, and the immigrant experience that shaped him. A conversation full of corazón, courage, and the reminder that not all heroes wear capes. 

Ep. #202 Houston's Favorite Habibi (ft. Mo Amer)

In this episode of NILC’s Freedom to Thrive, host Hector Flores sits down with Palestinian comedian, actor, and show creator Mo Amer to talk about his immigration journey, his identity, and how he transforms his lived experiences into art. From Houston to Palestine and on to Netflix breakthroughs, Mo shares stories of resilience, family, and finding freedom through storytelling.
If you love immigrant stories, comedy, or behind-the-scenes insights, this episode is a must-listen!

Ep. #201 Comedy is Resistance (ft. Cristela Alonzo)

Freedom to Thrive: Resistance, Justice, Resilience Podcast is back with Season 2, and we’re kicking things off with a powerful first episode: “Comedy is Resistance.” Our new host, Hector Flores, an LA-based artist and founding member of Las Cafeteras, welcomes acclaimed comedian and writer Cristela Alonzo, fresh off her third Netflix comedy special, to explore how laughter fuels activism. From growing up on the border to breaking into Hollywood, Cristela shares her journey, her stand-up trilogy, Lower Class, Middle Class, Upper Class, and how rest and joy are radical tools for change.
Also in this episode: Kica Matos, president of the National Immigration Law Center (NILC), shares how people can take action and what NILC is doing to support immigrant communities.
Come for the joy and laughter, stay for the call to action. Leave renewed, ready to stand together and help our communities thrive.

EP. #115. Kica Matos Wins The Puffin Prize

Welcome to this episode of the Freedom to Thrive podcast, hosted by Héctor Flores of the band Las Cafeteras. Join us as Héctor engages in a powerful conversation with Kica Matos, a dedicated activist and President of the National Immigration Law Center. Together, they explore themes of resilience and solidarity in the fight for immigrant and human rights.
In this heartfelt episode, discover the pivotal moments that shaped Kica’s path to activism, including her early experiences in New York City and her work with Amnesty International. Their discussion covers the transformative power of music and community, as well as personal stories of resistance and courage.
With warmth and wisdom, Kica shares what inspires her to continue the fight, while Héctor discusses the significance of cultural expression in activism. Reflect on how both music and movement can unite and empower, offering hope in challenging times.
This is more than just a conversation; it’s an invitation to engage with the movement and envision a future where all individuals have the freedom to thrive. Tune in to learn how you can get involved.

Ep. #114 Encountering ICE: In Life and in Art

The latest episode of the NILC Freedom to Thrive podcast delves into the pressing issue of immigration, shining a light on the widespread protests against ICE raids happening across the U.S. From Los Angeles to unexpected places like Alabama and Nebraska, communities are standing strong in support of immigrants.
In a poignant segment, Victoria Ballesteros is joined by Sam Cutler-Kreutz, the director of the Academy Award-nominated short film "A Lien," along with Joanna Cuevas Ingram, a senior staff attorney at the National Immigration Law Center. They discuss the film's powerful portrayal of a family's encounter with ICE and share vital "Know Your Rights" information, emphasizing the importance of legal preparedness and community support.
Join the conversation as they explore the role of art and advocacy in addressing immigration challenges and inspiring collective action. This episode promises to be both informative and inspiring, highlighting the power of storytelling and solidarity.

Ep. #113 Our Community is Strong and Resilient

In this episode, our podcast returns amidst a national crisis that threatens not just immigrant rights but the fundamental rights of all Americans. We explore the devastating impact of fires in Los Angeles and the power of community resilience in the face of adversity. From the ashes, a sense of solidarity emerged, showcasing the strength and spirit of diverse communities, led by immigrants and women of color.
As the nation faces an onslaught of legislative and executive actions eroding civil liberties, we delve into the implications of these changes on our liberty and democracy. Today we will highlight the necessity of resistance in its many forms, from activism to art, as we unite against rising extremism.
Join us in holding onto our shared humanity and engaging in meaningful dialogue with inspiring guests, while we stand together to preserve our democracy in these formidable times.

Ep. #112 The Power of Books | Roxanne Coady

In this episode of the NILC Freedom to Thrive podcast, host Victoria Ballesteros speaks with Roxanne Coady, founder of R.J. Julia Booksellers and Read to Grow. Roxanne shares her journey and the role that literature has played in her life. Her love for books, fostered by her father, a Hungarian immigrant baker, not only shaped her life but also inspired her to open a bookstore that serves as a community refuge and a hub for civil conversation.
The conversation touches on the transformative power of books in awakening societal consciousness and driving social justice movements. Roxanne discusses her family's immigrant experience, the value of storytelling, and how books can act as a powerful medium to build empathy and understanding. The episode also delves into the current anti-immigrant sentiment and the importance of maintaining spaces for open dialogue through literature.

Ep. #111 Borderland I The Line Within

In this episode of the NILC Freedom to Thrive Podcast, Victoria Ballesteros delves into the eye-opening documentary 'Borderland, The Line Within.' The film explores the pervasive and hidden border industrial complex that stretches far beyond the southwestern U.S., highlighting its impact in communities nationwide.
Join Victoria as she speaks with the documentary's filmmakers Pamela Yates and Paco de Onis, and digital humanist Alex Gil. They discuss the powerful stories of immigrants navigating a dysfunctional system and the staggering data illustrating the reach and profits of the border industry.
This conversation sheds light on the courage and resilience of immigrants, the influence of the border industrial complex, and the urgent need for reform in immigration narratives and policies. Discover the depth of this issue and explore the transformative potential of the film as a call to action.