Línea Abierta

Most cancer patients and survivors have or anticipate medical debt, hitting young people, people of color, and low-income people the worst, according to a survey by a major cancer-action organization.

In Arizona, a coalition of businesses, faith leaders, police and prison directors are opposing the proposed HCR2060 measure which would empower local and state police to stop, arrest and detain immigrants.

Voters in Georgia went to the polls on Tuesday to decide contested primaries for Congress, state legislature and local offices. How to read the voter turnout and election results?

Florida governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill last month that would ban heat protections for workers. The federal government does not have laws protecting workers from extreme heat either.

As tens of thousands of Mexicans living in the US have cast their ballot in Mexico’s presidential election, political observers explain the steps to vote.

Florida governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill last month that would ban heat protections for workers. The federal government does not have laws protecting workers from extreme heat either.

As of 2024, California’s entitlement to health insurance for low-income people became a reality, and this year it has been extended to all undocumented immigrants, who were previously excluded. But are people responding, or is enrollment slow?

As Israeli troops continue a ground invasion on crowded cities in devastated Gaza, pro-Palestinians protests spread on college campuses

DACA immigrants are gaining access to subsidized health care through Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act marketplace under a new HHS rule. What should Dreamers know about this new benefit?

Arte Americas in Fresno showcases dozens of art works that legendary Chicana artist Yolanda López created between 1975 and 1980.

This month, the world commemorated Maternal Mental Health Day to raise awareness about mental illnesses that affect women during pregnancy and within the first year after birth, called perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.

For Mexicans living abroad, the June election has already arrived. Thousands have already mailed in their ballots.

Riding as part of a foreign aid package, the FEND OFF Fentanyl Act was signed into law. The legislation declares fentanyl trafficking a national emergency and plans to crack down on drug traffickers in an effort to help combat the opioid crisis.

California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara recently traveled around the state to tell people that all Californians are now eligible for full-scope Medi-Cal.

Marine life and fish populations are plummeting as a consequence of overfishing and destructive fishing practices. What are the biggest threats to our oceans and fisheries?

Mexican immigrant rights activist and Catholic priest Alejandro Solalinde visits Radio Bilingüe’s studios in Fresno, California.

A new executive has been chosen to join the founding leader of Radio Bilingüe as co-executive director as the community-based media organization opens the doors for the next generation of leaders.

Mexican folk dance groups from all over the US are meeting in Albuquerque this summer to celebrate 50 years of the Asociación Nacional de Grupos Folklóricos

This program includes highlights of the scheduled session. Also, on the eve of a deadline to clarify and restore the right to vote for thousands of Mexican emigres.

After Arizona's Supreme Court revived a Civil War-era law that bans virtually all abortions, state lawmakers passed a bill to repeal it. If the State Legislature does not block it, the law will soon go into effect.

A new executive has been chosen to join the founding leader of Radio Bilingüe as co-executive director as the national community-based media organization opens the doors for the next generation of leaders.

Pro-palestinian protests are spreading through colleges across the US. Hundreds have been arrested. Students say they are angry at US continuing support for the bombing of civilians in Gaza.

With marches for better wages in Hollywood, rallies at the site of the upcoming Republican convention, and other actions pro-immigrant demonstrators mark International Workers’ Day.

Troubadour extraordinaire Eduardo Peralta comes from his native Chile to join musicians and artists from the San Francisco Bay Area in celebrating the life and music of Rafael Manríquez

Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su announced a new rule to strengthen protections for farmworkers.

The three candidates in Mexico’s presidential race will face off this weekend to debate "the route to Mexico's development."

On the heels of Earth Day, ocean conservation activists are participating this week in negotiations convened by the United Nations in Ottawa, Can, to agree on measures to curb plastic pollution, including in the oceans.

Powerful ag groups are spending millions on Spanish-language radio ads criticizing California’s card check law, in an effort to discourage farm workers from voting in union elections.

On the heels of Earth Day, community activists in Colorado meet to explore the role Latinos can play in the fight against climate change. They discuss the disproportionate impact the pandemic had on Latino frontline, essential workers...

A recent report shows that every legitimate study conducted on this topic demonstrates that non-citizen voting in federal and state elections is imperceptibly rare.

Latinos are more likely to engage in heavy drinking and suffer alcohol-related problems, but less likely to seek treatment. On Alcohol Awareness Month, substance use counselors join this program to talk about the risks of excessive alcohol drinking.

On Earth Day, environmental leaders from the Amazon, the Gulf South, and other communities come together in New York City, holding Citigroup, the world's second-largest funder of coal, oil and gas, responsible for environmental racism.

Just weeks away from the largest election in Mexico’s history, three presidential candidates are in the race to succeed popular President López Obrador. They are Claudia Sheinbaum, Xóchitl Gálvez and Jorge Alvarez Máynez. What are their proposals?

The dominant electoral narrative in the US is that the southern border is a danger zone because of the drugs and violence in Mexico and Central America.

As the election season unfolds, political candidates are more and more filling their campaign rhetoric with claims of a “migrant crime wave” and a “border bloodbath.”

Given the impact of climate change that affects the binational basin of the Colorado River, farmers in the Mexicali Valley reorient their work towards more sustainable and resilient agriculture.

USCIS announced it is extending work permits for 360 days for many immigrants while renewals are pending. Meantime, members of Congress, immigrant activists and business leaders are calling on President Biden...

Community health organizations in California are ramping up activities to reach out to people who could benefit from a new state law that gives all immigrants access to full scope Medi-Cal

On Tax Day, financial advisors share news and last-minute tips on tax returns. Also, the U.S. Department of the Treasury and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) launched the new Direct File Pilot Program

This week, the three Mexican presidential candidates Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, Xóchitl Gálvez Ruiz and Jorge Alvarez Maynez faced off for the first of three 2024 presidential debates. This program includes highlights of the debate.

A group of outstanding poets joins this edition on occasion of National Poetry Month to celebrate poetry, play with words and engage listeners.

California voters recently approved Proposition 1, an initiative that seeks to overhaul mental health care, spend on housing and drug treatment programs, and get homeless people off the streets.

A proposed state budget in Colorado boosts funding for K-12 schools and higher education, capping tuition hikes at state universities.

As the election season unfolds, political candidates are more and more filling their campaign rhetoric with claims of a “migrant crime wave” and a “border bloodbath.”

Under a new California law, comprehensive Medi-Cal is now available to all people, including the undocumented.

The new Farm Bill is facing headwinds in Congress. Republicans who oppose increased spending in climate-related conservation farming practices

The first presidential debate of the 2024 elections in Mexico will take place this weekend from the INE headquarters in Mexico City. Claudia Sheinbaum, Xóchitl Gálvez and Jorge Álvarez Máynez will meet to debate education and health, the fight against corruption, and discrimination.

On April 8th, a total solar eclipse will cover large areas of Mexico, the US, and Canada. This cosmic phenomenon is expected to help astronomers learn more about the wonders of the universe as well as inspire the next generation of astronomers, scientists, and engineers.

Under a new California law, comprehensive Medi-Cal is now available to all people, including the undocumented. People currently on emergency Medi-Cal benefits will automatically transition into full-scope Medi-Cal.

After the world court ordered Israel to ensure aid and halt famine in Gaza, and the UN Security Council demanded a ceasefire, Israeli forces continued launching raids on Gaza hospitals.

A federal court allowed the Biden administration’s parole program to remain in place, allowing people in the US to sponsor Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans and Venezuelans. An expert explains the impact of the decision.

On the heels of National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week, a drug policy expert joins this program to demystify issues related to drug use and addiction among youth. She discusses facts on drug prohibition and the crackdown on drug law violations, the overdose risk, the stigma on medication assisted treatment, and advocates for a health approach to drugs.

Fresno recently recognized as a historical site the place where the National Association of Farm Workers held their first convention in 1962, the event that gave birth to the organized farmworker movement.

This holiday edition features a conversation with Alvaro Carrillo Jr., son of legendary Mexican songwriter Alvaro Carrillo, author of dozens of popular ballads and boleros such as “Sabor a Mí,” “Luz de Luna,” “El Andariego,” and “La Mentira.”

Due to overfishing, pollution and climate change, the world’s oceans are becoming a dead zone for fish and marine life and could be depleted of life in this century. According to the United Nations, 90 percent of big fish populations are depleted. What are the specific causes of mass fish kills? How to protect the precious oceans? How can citizens get involved? A recognized advocate also discusses the White House ocean justice plans.

On National Nutrition Month, community dietitians raise awareness about the higher risk of obesity, diabetes and chronic health conditions among Latinos and the need to eat a well-balanced diet. Healthy food experts share tips on how to eat healthy on a budget and how foods impact our health.

Colorado’s Gov. Jared Polis launched a new greenhouse gas “roadmap” with the goal of reducing industry emissions and improving air quality. How green is the plan?

After California opened Medi-Cal to all undocumented immigrants in the state, a clinic in Los Angeles that serves uninsured immigrants and low-income families moved all its undocumented patients to full-scope Medi-Cal. What does it mean for the patients to go from restricted to full-scope health care coverage? How are they using the new benefits? What does it mean for the clinic to enroll thousands of patients in the Medi-Cal health plan? This archival program was originally aired on March 21, 2024.

Internationally acclaimed Mexican-American author Sandra Cisneros talks about the release of a 40th anniversary edition of her national bestseller novel “The House on Mango Street”. Cisneros also talks about how she chose to have books instead of children, the joys and challenges of her life as a writer, her spiritual journey as “Budalupana”, her use of art to awaken people, her struggles with depression, and her message on International Women’s Day. She also reads selected poems from her new book, “Woman Without Shame”, including an unpublished poem. This archival program was originally aired on March 21, 2024.

With historic levels of federal funding available for rebuilding infrastructure, city leaders from across the country gathered in Washington to discuss their top priorities. Key issues include the rising costs of fuel and housing and increasing congestion and pollution. Mayors and council members from the National League of Cities join this program to discuss pressing issues facing their cities, including their struggle to house new migrants.

Traditional farmers and environmentalists meet in Mexico City to celebrate biodiversity based organic farming and …

Internationally acclaimed Mexican-American author Sandra Cisneros talks about the release of a 40th anniversary edition of her national bestseller novel “The House on Mango Street”. Cisneros also talks about how she chose to have books instead of children, the joys and challenges of her life as a writer, her spiritual journey as “Budalupana”, her use of art to awaken people, her struggles with depression, and her message on International Women’s Day. She also reads selected poems from her new book, “Women Without Shame”, including an unpublished poem.

After California opened Medi-Cal to all undocumented immigrants in the state, a clinic in Los Angeles that serves uninsured immigrants and low-income families moved all its undocumented patients to full-scope Medi-Cal. What does it mean for the patients to go from restricted to full-scope health care coverage? How are they using the new benefits? What does it mean for the clinic to enroll thousands of patients in the Medi-Cal health plan?

After the round of primaries in Florida, Arizona, Illinois, Kansas and Ohio, the lines are drawn for November’s presidential election. What’s next in the primary season? What primaries to watch? How is the “uncommitted” protest vote impacting the Democratic primaries? Who will Nikki Haley’s supports back now? What to expect from young voters? What voters to watch towards November? This is part of our series “Hacia el Voto 2024.”

Voters go out to the polls in presidential primaries in swing state Arizona and red state Florida, as well as local and national primaries in blue Illinois, states with large and growing Latino electorates. Without Democratic presidential primary, only Republican voters can vote in Florida. Arizona, where a quarter of the state’s voters are expected to be Latino, is emerging again as a battleground state. What’s on the ballot? Who can vote? What races to watch? Where do candidates stand on key Latino issues? What’s at stake? This is part of our special series “Hacia el Voto 2024.”

In today’s primary election, voters decide the Democratic and Republican presidential nominees in four states: Arizona, Illinois, Kansas and Ohio. Florida’s ballot only includes the Republican candidate. Without competitive races, what to expect? Political analysts discuss the news developments. This edition is part of the “Hacia el Voto 2024” series.

The political power of the Latino vote has been steadily growing in Arizona, Florida and Illinois, with millions expected to cast ballots this year. As voters get ready to cast ballots in presidential primaries in Arizona and Florida, and primaries in Illinois and other states, how energized are Latinos to go out to vote? Where do the candidates stand on key Latino issues? This edition is part of the “Hacia el Voto 2024” series.

At least three million Mexicans are expected to be displaced and forced to migrate in the next three decades because of disaster emergencies such as floods and mega droughts exacerbated by climate change. What’s the outlook? How is Mexico preparing? These and other news are discussed with policy experts.

This is a conversation with freshman congresswoman Yadira Caraveo of Colorado, whose first bill in Congress targeted the rising threat of xylazine, a powerful tranquilizer linked to the escalating epidemic of overdoses. Caraveo, who is a doctor, talks about the devastating impact of fentanyl and meth overdoses among young Latinos and farm workers in Colorado’s rural communities and her plans to address the addiction epidemic.

The day after primary elections in Washington, Georgia and other states, reporters file stories on the results and analysts examine the road ahead for the major presidential campaigns and the impact expected from the Latino vote. This is a program of the series “Hacia el Voto 2024.”

One week after Super Tuesday, voters in Washington, Georgia, and other states hold presidential primaries. What’s the ambience in the voting polls? How motivated is the Latino voter to go out to the polls? How big are the efforts to get the Latino vote out? What are the expectations for this election? How do voting results work? This edition of Radio Bilingüe’s special series “Hacia el Voto 2024.” is hosted from the hub of an effort in Atlanta to mobilize Latino voters.

As voters cast their ballots to select each party’s nominee for president in Washington, Georgia, and other states, reporters file stories on the voter turnout, last-minute efforts to get out the vote, and the issues driving voters to the polls. Political analysts examine the growing clout of the Latino vote in these states and put these primaries in perspective. This program, part of the series “Hacia el Voto 2024,” is hosted remotely from the site of a campaign to mobilize Latino voters in Atlanta.

On the eve of presidential primaries in Washington, Georgia, and other states, reporters and analysts report and comment on news developments as voters cast their ballots to decide the nominee for president for each party. What are the issues on Latino voters’ minds? Are the major campaigns reaching out to Latino voters? What’s on the ballot? How does the presidential primary work in these states? This edition is part of the “Hacia el Voto 2024” series.

Seven farmworkers and a pickup driver died in a crash on a rural road in Madera County. Most farmworkers traveling in a van were not wearing seatbelts. Community members are collecting donations for the families. What can we learn from this tragedy?

Voters in sixteen states went to the primary polls on Super Tuesday. Millions of Latino voters were eligible to cast their ballot. How enthusiastic was the Latino voter turnout? What races are they expected to have an impact on? Who are the winners and who are the losers? How did the process work? What to learn from this voting day towards the general election? This is part of our series Hacia el Voto 2024.

It’s Super Tuesday in the US. Sixteen states are voting in the primaries. The Latino vote may be decisive in California, Colorado and Texas. Are Latino voters turning out to vote? What are the big choices in the ballots? What’s motivating and what’s stopping Latinos from voting? How to cast a ballot? What tools and hotlines are available to assist the Spanish-speaking voter? What are the rights of the voter on Election Day? This is part of our special series Hacia el Voto 2024.

On the eve of Super Tuesday, when California, Colorado, Texas and other states hold their 2024 primary elections, journalists and analysts discuss what’s on the ballot in each of those largely Latino states. What to know about voter guides, voter registration, early voting, and the new tools for voters. In California and Texas, voters will choose candidates for US President, US Senate, US Congress, and other offices and measures.

International Women’s Day is marked every March 8 to remember women’s historical fight for equality. As part of the commemoration, thousands march in Mexico City for gender equality and against violence against women, such as femicides and disappearances. In another story, farm worker advocates begin a three-day Farmworker Freedom Festival in Palm Beach, Florida, to highlight the historic human rights progress achieved through the Fair Food Program. The Festival will also reach out to consumers and food industry leaders to deal with poverty and abuse especially among those who harvest produce for fast food companies.

“Sones de Mariachi.” The Grammy-winning Mariachi Los Camperos is launching a new album, “Sones de Mariachi,” featuring a mix of popular and lesser-known sones rooted in Western Mexico, the cradle of the mariachi tradition. The band leader, Jesús “Chuy” Guzman, talks about the album’s fresh arrangements and the upcoming performance at the Fresno Philharmonic.

The day after the biggest primary day, reporters and analysts comment on the voting numbers and the exit polls. Among the topics to discuss: How did the voter turnout impact the election results? What can these results tell us about the road ahead towards the general election? What’s the outlook for California’s and Texas’ Senate races? Is Biden convincing doubters? Are “uncommitted” protest voters over Israel-Gaza making a dent? What’s the path forward for Haley? Is Trump clinching the nomination? What to expect from Trump’s bid in the face of legal battles? This is part of the series Hacia el...

It’s Super Tuesday in the US. Sixteen states are holding primaries, including California and Texas, the two states with the largest Latino population in the country. What role will Latinos play in the election? What issues are driving Latinos to the polls? Who is mobilizing to boost Latino voter turnout? How will voter turnout numbers impact the election results? How are hotlines assisting Spanish-speaking voters working? This is part of our series Hacia el Voto 2024.

Today is the official kick off of the presidential race in Mexico. Presidential candidates hold events in their political strongholds. What are their campaign messages? What’s the feeling about presidential candidates and political parties among Mexican voters? This and other news developments are discussed in this edition.

Disinformation is reportedly getting worse each election season. Baseless claims of election fraud targeting noncitizens or voting by mail are common this year. Some campaigns are claiming that “immigrants are taking all our jobs.” Others are blaming health insurance programs expanded to immigrants in some states with “creating perverse incentives for illegal immigration.” Social scientists join this program to identify fake news and fact check and answer some common assertions geared to influence voters’ opinions.

As Super Tuesday looms, doctors and nurses set out to mobilize around civic health. Proposing that elections are critical for health care access, community health centers in Southern California are bringing early voting machines and Spanish-language voter guides to their clinics. The non-partisan campaign is known as “Mi Voto, Mi Salud.” On a related note, artist promoters are using Mexican music to get young citizens excited about voting. Big name artists are lending their voice to drive younger millennials and Gen-Z Latino voters to the polls, as part of the non partisan campaign “Grita.Canta.Vota.”

On March 5, Colorado will hold its primary election to decide only the presidential candidates for each party, as the nation waits for the U.S. Supreme Court verdict on Colorado’s decision to remove former President Trump from the state’s primary ballot. Meantime, how will the votes for Trump be counted? What do voters need to know? How critical will the Latino vote be in the 2024 elections? What matters to them? What do they want from policymakers?

Samaritans at the Arizona border are facing threats of arrest while Republican lawmakers advanced the “Arizona Invasion Act,” a bill similar to the embattled law in Texas that allows local and state police to arrest and expel suspected immigrants. How would this bill impact the daily lives of immigrants in Arizona?

Un año después de las inundaciones de Planada, el condado de Merced aprobó un fondo de 20 millones de dólares en ayudas estatales. ¿Cuál es el plan para distribuirlo entre los damnificados? Además, mientras nuevas tormentas azotan la zona, ¿qué se hace para evitar que el desastre se repita?

Línea Abierta, Radio Bilingüe’s flagship news program, premiered in the 1990s as the first program of its kind in the US public radio system. 29 years later this week, the program continues serving audiences around the nation, filling the gap as the only call-in talk show in Spanish in the nation’s public airwaves. What was the original vision? How to define its brand of journalism? How has it managed to survive and grow at a time when newsrooms are vanishing across the country? What are the challenges ahead? In this anniversary program, we hear testimonies from program hosts and listeners.

Poultry processing is one of the most dangerous jobs in the country due to the risk of amputations from heavy machinery, burns from hazardous chemicals and chronic injuries from repetitive motion, according to OSHA, the federal agency that enforces workplace safety regulations. In a recent case, an employee recently lost his life after falling into a poultry waste pit at an organic processing plant in San Joaquin Valley’s city of Sanger. A reporter followed up and interviewed several workers who complained about “dangerous” working conditions. She shares findings of her reporting.

After the state of California renamed Squaw Valley to Yokuts Valley in Fresno County, the County’s political leaders sued and lost the battle in court, when the judge agreed that the term “squaw” is considered a racist and sexist slur, particularly against Native women, and determined that the county lacked standing. Now the county board is using the ballot on March 5, asking the voters to give the board the power to reverse the name change. Local community leaders discuss the issue. This program includes voter information on early voting for the primaries in California, Colorado and Texas. This archival...

Mexico’s elections agency extended five days the deadline to register to vote for Mexicans living abroad who want to participate in Mexico’s 2024 elections. In other news, at least three million Mexicans are expected to be displaced and forced to migrate in the next three decades because of disaster emergencies such as floods and megadroughts exacerbated by climate change. These and other news are discussed with policy experts.

Opioid addiction and overdose death rates are rising faster among Latinos. This crisis is reaching rural areas, apparently because patients in rural areas were much more likely to receive opioid prescriptions than those in big cities. The Biden administration is urging housing agencies and community development organizations to make naloxone and other life-saving medications available to those most at risk. Where are the hotspots? How to identify opioid use disorder? Are Latinos able to access life-saving treatments? How to prevent and treat the epidemic?

The US Supreme Court heard arguments over whether Trump can appear on the ballot in Colorado, after the state’s Supreme Court ruled that the former president violated Section 3 of the 14th Amendment when he incited violence on Jan 6. What are the signals of the court? How is this case impacting the primaries in Colorado?

As a federal court hears a motion to block Texas SB4, a new state law that allows local and state police to arrest and expel suspected immigrants, civil rights advocates escalate protests as part of a statewide campaign. In other news, Florida's SB1718 is described by many as an aggression to the immigrant's life since, among other things, it criminalizes the transportation of undocumented people from outside to inside the state and stipulates that driver's licenses granted by other states to undocumented people are no longer valid in Florida. Seven months since SB1718 went into effect on July 1, to...

On January 1, California enacted a new law that expands health care coverage for all low-income immigrants. Under the new law, all undocumented immigrants may qualify for full scope Medi-Cal, California’s version of the federal Medicaid program. Before, they could only get Medi-Cal for medical emergencies. Are the newly eligible people showing up at the clinics? Are they getting enrolled? Do they have any concerns? Have they received the news?

On the eve of a crucial deadline, community leaders in the US and electoral officials call on Mexicans living abroad to pay attention to February 20. This is the deadline to show up at Mexican consulates to register to vote and get a voter ID. This is also the deadline to request the way to vote from abroad in the June 2024 election.

After the state of California renamed Squaw Valley to Yokuts Valley in Fresno County, the County’s political leaders sued and lost the battle in court, when the judge agreed that the term “squaw” is considered a racist and sexist slur, particularly against Native women, and determined that the county lacked standing. Now the county board is using the ballot on March 5, asking the voters to give the board the power to reverse the name change. Local community leaders discuss the issue. This program includes voter information on early voting for the primaries in California, Colorado and Texas.

This is a conversation with current members of Los Muecas, a Mexican band from the Romantic Wave era of the 1970s that was formed in the fields of the valley of Mexicali, created a unique keyboard sound, and hit the top of the charts in Mexico, the US, and Latin America with songs that combined traditional Mexican genres with Beatles-influenced modern rhythms. After several decades, the group continues performing and touring.

Workers on farms and ranches in the rural areas of Colorado are reporting growing cases of stress, anxiety and depression, contributing to make Colorado a state with one of the highest suicide rates in the country. To address this mental health crisis, state legislators are proposing measures to help farmworkers and rural communities with life-saving resources to prevent suicides and treat mental health issues. A journalist and community advocates are invited to discuss the issue and the bills.

Most Latino children in California live in the most contaminated areas and suffer from asthma and diabetes at higher rates than white children. In response, community advocates are launching a campaign to debunk lies and draw the links between these maladies and climate change and the role of Big Oil. They are also urging the government to adopt remedial policies. This archival program was originally aired on February 1, 2024.

Republican senators blocked a negotiated bill on border security and asylum and immigration changes and gave the green-light for a plan securing military aid to Ukraine and Israel. Meanwhile, after failing to impeach DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, the House may attempt a new vote soon. In other news, a new national report shows that as soon as asylum seekers and newly arriving immigrants in the US are able to work, not only do they earn money but they also contribute to state and local taxes, and those contributions grow as their wages grow. Also, after Texas Gov. Greg Abbott staged...

Latino voters show a growing interest over water issues, such as drought, inadequate water supplies and the Colorado River crisis, surveys say. Still, Latino elected officials are often absent in water policy forums and very few are represented in water agency boards. Too often, during elections, water board seats go under the radar screen of voters. How high of a priority is water supply in the agenda of Latino voters in the Colorado River basin? What’s the role of local and state water boards in ensuring equal and sustainable access to water? How do water board decisions impact the quality...

On the eve of the 60-year anniversary of the Equal Pay Act, experts discuss the historical impact of the law. Also, advocates launch a campaign demanding policies that protect women, especially women of color, against gender-based pay discrimination, like the Paycheck Fairness Act. They are raising attention to workers who are often overlooked and low paid, like part-time workers, moms, and migrant workers.

En la Florida aprobaron recursos millonarios para que agentes estatales puedan transportar, desde cualquier parte de Estados Unidos, a inmigrantes en proceso de asilo y dejarlos en ciudades y estados santuario. La controversial legislación es un show político que abrirá las puertas para la discriminación racial advierten organizaciones pro migrantes. En Carolina del Norte se discute una propuesta para obligar a sus alguaciles detener durante 48 horas a inmigrantes, después de cumplir sentencia, para que agentes migratorios los puedan poner en proceso de deportación. Defensores civiles consideran que la medida separaría familias, desperdiciar recursos y tendría un impacto negativo en...

After the Fresno City Council overwhelmingly approved a plan to change the name of a road in South Fresno to César Chávez Boulevard, the conservative board of supervisors of Fresno county opposed it, blocking the name change in stretches controlled by the county.

The first Cesar Chavez Boulevard street signs will soon be installed and many in the community gather to celebrate the changing of the name of a major thoroughfare in honor of the late labor leader. Local leaders say this is a tribute to Chavez and also to the many anonymous people who joined him in the movement for social justice. The authors of the historic city resolution passed in March join this conversation.

After the river water reached crisis shortage levels, and prompted by the federal government, California, Arizona and Nevada reached a short-term deal that would help reduce water usage and keep the Colorado River flowing. The breakthrough agreement protects the river and the water supplies for major Western cities as well as for major farmlands. What’s the impact of this agreement on farmers, cities, indigenous communities and Mexico? What happens after 2026? What are the long term plans? Can the Colorado River be saved?

Decenas de miles de personas mayores no reciben la atención que necesitan y se espera que esta crisis se agrave a medida que más personas en California envejezcan. Un nuevo proyecto de ley estatal reformaría los servicios de atención domiciliaria de California para abordar este problema.

Trump Indicted. Donald Trump is expected to surrender to authorities in Miami tomorrow after being indicted for mishandling classified documents and other criminal charges. First time a former president faces federal criminal charges. What’s the latest on the charges? Who is the judge? Who is the prosecutor?

After gubernatorial elections in the State of Mexico and Coahuila, a political analyst comments on the meaning of the results and examines their impact on Mexico’s 2024 presidential election. A state elections official also shares news on the turnout of Mexicans voters living abroad. Finally, fourteen years after the ABC Daycare fire that left 49 children dead and more than 100 injured in Hermosillo, the father of one child killed in the fire comments on the restitution measures announced by the federal government and his quest to bring those responsible to justice.

Former President Trump promised to end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants if he is elected president in 2024. Trump said he would issue an executive order on his first day ordering the federal government to deny citizenship to children with non-citizen parents. Considering the legal woes, what’s behind this announcement? In other news, U.S. Reps. Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL), and Veronica Escobar (D-TX) introduced an immigration bill that would invest in border security, while creating a path to citizenship for Dreamers and other longtime residents of the U.S. This is a look into the debate on this bipartisan...

The debt ceiling deal passed the House and the Senate, ending weeks of political stalemate and averting an economic crisis. The legislation now goes to President Biden. The deal includes cuts to domestic programs that help the poor. What’s in the final deal? How does it impact student loans and food aid and low-income housing? What does it mean for the Latino family?

As rents in Fresno continue to climb, many young people and their families are facing instability and housing insecurity. Local community groups are putting pressure on the city government to work on rent control and tenant protections. They are also urging leaders to invest in new housing and address homelessness. On another topic, environmental advocates in the San Joaquin Valley sued air pollution control authorities to force them to remedy the worsening air quality after a recent study showed that this valley suffers the worst air pollution in the nation while industrial sources continue to increase air pollution.

After the end of the emergency declaration for Covid-19, what will happen with Latinos and other communities that are among the hardest hit by COVID? And since so few have received the updated booster dose of the Covid-19 Vaccine, will COVID vaccines still be free and where will they be available? What are the details of the new plan to get COVID vaccines and future treatments?

A debt ceiling deal has come just in time to avert a government debt default on June 5. President Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy reached an agreement and they are urging Congress to pass it. The deal is still opposed by some Democratic lawmakers who resist social spending cuts and some Republicans who want more cuts. A political analyst unpacks the concessions.

A human rights advocate comments on Texas House Bill 7, a far-reaching, restrictive immigration policy. If passed, the legislation would establish a Border Protection Unit, a state police force with expanded powers. On other news, after the end of the Title 42 policy, Congress is under renewed pressure to act on border legislation. The House GOP has a largely symbolic, enforcement-only bill, from restarting construction of a southern border wall to placing new restrictions on asylum seekers. In the Senate, some members are talking about a larger immigration bill. What are these actions about? Finally, the University of California took...

California’s safety-net health program has resumed annual eligibility checks after the three years of the pandemic. This means beneficiaries will need to provide updated personal information to maintain coverage. What to watch for? What do families need to know? What’s the impact on immigrant farm workers? What are the counties and community agencies in the Central Valley doing to help people out?

PTSD and substance abuse disorder are on the rise among military service members and the situation is worse for Latino veterans. Still, Latinos often find social and cultural barriers to get treatment. What are the long-term effects of combat-related PTSD? What’s the experience of Latino military veterans dealing with emotional pain? How does the rising epidemic of PTSD and trauma impact family violence in Latino military families? On this Memorial Day, leaders of a national network that works on “transformational healing for boys, men and war veterans” through the practice of the “La Cultura Cura” approach, talk about their work...

The Mexican government recently launched the FB card, which allows Mexicans living in the US to send remittances for up to 2,500 dollars, for a fraction of the amount private firms are currently charging. This is the first time that Mexican migrants are offered a bank account to make their remittances. Mexicans living in the United States will now be able to request the card online or go to Mexican consulates to request the card. This and other news are discussed in this edition.

El programa de salud de la red de seguridad de California ha reanudado las verificaciones anuales de elegibilidad después de tres años de la pandemia. Esto significa que los beneficiarios tendrán que proporcionar información personal actualizada para mantener la cobertura. ¿Qué hay que tener en cuenta? ¿Qué deben saber las familias? ¿Cuál es el impacto en los trabajadores agrícolas inmigrantes? ¿Qué están haciendo los condados y las agencias comunitarias del Valle Central para ayudar a la gente?

Hoy hace un año, diecinueve niños y dos adultos murieron en un tiroteo en la Escuela Primaria Robb en Uvalde. Este tiroteo, el más letal ocurrido en una escuela pública de Texas, sumió a la comunidad en un momento de angustia y dolor. Tras una petición pública de medidas urgentes para reformar las leyes sobre armas, los legisladores estatales han rechazado docenas de proyectos de ley para controlar las armas utilizadas en tiroteos masivos. Un año después, ¿cómo se están recuperando las familias de Uvalde? ¿Cuál es el impacto en la comunidad docente? ¿Son más seguras las escuelas de Texas?...

As people age, they’re at a greater risk for many eye diseases and conditions — but vision loss doesn’t have to be a normal part of aging. Early detection and treatment can help protect vision and prevent vision loss, but many eye diseases have no early symptoms. How can older adults catch eye diseases and conditions early? This year, Healthy Vision Month is focusing on Spanish-speaking families, warning that Latinos have high rates of vision loss caused by some eye diseases.

In the book “Our Grandfathers Were Braceros and We Too,” a historian and a social activist compiled testimonies from veteran Braceros who worked the US fields and railroad tracks between 1942 and 1964 under binational contracts processed by the Mexican government. The book captures stories of failed labor contracts, backbreaking labor, corruption, racism, and the story of the movement to recover the savings robbed from the Braceros. This program includes an interview with a Mexican worker who tells about her experience after working as a contracted “Bracera” in the US under the modern guest worker program.

Mexico has agreed to accept non-Mexican migrants deported from the U.S. after the lift of Title 42. After the meeting of a DHS official with Mexican President López Obrador, they confirmed “Mexico will continue to accept back migrants on humanitarian grounds.” As almost 40,000 migrants are camped in tents along the northern Mexican border, on the day after the end of Title 42, analysts comment on the news developments.

The Biden administration will send 1,500 troops to the U.S.-Mexico border starting this week, after US and Mexican officials agreed to new policies to deter undocumented migrant border crossings in preparation for the end of Title 42 and an expected migrant surge. Humanitarian activists comment on the situation at the border on the eve of the end of the emergency pandemic-era restrictions. In other news, the Republican legislature in Florida passed a package that cracks down on immigration. The bills, called the most draconian state immigration laws in the country, would prohibit a number of services for undocumented immigrants, including...

A quarter of people in the US live with polluted air, with people of color being the hardest hit, according to a new report. Fueled by extreme weather events and the climate crisis, California has the areas with the worst air quality. A representative from the American Lung Association discusses the report.

On the world holiday celebrating the women’s rights movement (and, this year, the contribution women and girls are making to technology and online education,) journalist contributors comment on their coverage of recent developments impacting Latina women. Latina workers were pushed to poverty more than other workers during the Covid pandemic. Domestic abuse and family violence surged to alarming levels during the lockdown of the pandemic. And Latinas are being impacted the most by the current wave of bans on abortion rights. Listeners are encouraged to call in.

California farm operators are still 90% White and this reality in California’s water rights system impacts the water flows of the SF Bay-Delta. According to watchdogs, these special interests are determining the Delta tunnel project and leaving tribes and communities of color out of the plan.

Mexican legislators representing constituencies of Mexican emigres living in the US talk about top issues in their agenda, including remittances, voting rights for Mexicans living abroad, consular services, and corruption. These and other news developments are discussed in this edition.

During the pandemic, food assistance programs were developed for the most vulnerable, including those immigrants considered essential workers. Now that the end of the public health emergency has been decreed, this aid has also decreased although it is still needed. In California, several legislators proposed two initiatives so that low-income undocumented families can apply for food aid without being considered a public charge. On the topic of food assistance, three proposals are also being discussed in the northwestern state of Oregon. In this edition, we will speak with several proponents of these food laws.

The Reparations Task Force has been holding a series of public meetings around California to help state officials examine systemic racism have harmed African Americans and how the state should compensate African Americans for the harms caused by slavery and racism, including the unjust taking of property, devaluation of Black businesses, housing discrimination, mass incarceration, and health issues. The task force is expected to submit proposals for the Legislature by July. Who would be eligible for reparations? This program is dedicated to commemorate Black History Month.

The school government in Fresno, CA, is hiring new chefs to oversee the quality of school meals, cook food with fresh ingredients, better respond to student tastes, and reduce food waste. Many families in Fresno report food insecurity and some say “without good nutrition there is no good education.” Last year, California became the first state in the nation to provide free school meals to all students. This program brings conversations with a local community leader and mothers who are in the frontlines, advocating for the new Universal Meals law in California and the changes to the school menu in...

Línea Abierta is the first and only national, live, Spanish-language call-in show in U.S. public broadcasting, and on February 25, it completed its 28th year. Radio Bilingüe launched Línea Abierta in 1995 to fill the void in public and commercial media of smart, thoughtful, Latino-oriented public affairs programming in Spanish. In this 28th Anniversary program, you will hear the prominent voices of experts who have lent their voices to our airwaves, but also, we will ask, “has a Línea Abierta topic or guest been impactful or relevant in your life?” As we leave the pandemic, what topics still keep you...

Communities around California are devastated after a three-week series of winter storms. President Biden visited the disaster area and vowed to help residents rebuild. This is a report on the recovery efforts.

Mexican legislators representing constituencies of Mexican emigres living in the US talk about top issues in their agenda, including remittances, voting rights for Mexicans living abroad, consular services, and corruption. These and other news developments are discussed in this edition.

LGBTQ people from around the nation convene in San Francisco to discuss the current challenges of the community, including the wave of anti-LGBTQ legislation gaining ground in many states, the rise in violence and hate crimes and the discrimination in basic services, such as housing and health care, against this community.

Agriculture is a key pillar of California’s thriving economy. Yet, those working the fields face dire working conditions and serious health challenges. A new, landmark study shows many farmworkers in California live with chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure or have been infected with Covid-19 and don’t have health insurance. Most report food insecurity and do not qualify for unemployment insurance benefits. An author of the study discusses the findings and “the need for a deeper look at current policies, laws and practices in agricultural workplaces.”

Pages of the original Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, a document that transformed the US Southwest and the world, arrive in Denver today and are on display to mark the 175th anniversary of its signing. The treaty officially ended the U.S.-Mexico War, greatly expanded the US territory and changed the lives of Mexicans north of the Rio Grande forever. As Chicanos and Latinos become a majority in the US Southwest, community leaders and intellectuals deem the treaty a living document and are calling on the United Nations to investigate the state of human and land rights in Mexican communities north of...

Minnesota lawmakers passed a bill to give driver’s licenses to undocumented residents. The bill now heads to the state Senate. On other news, USCIS is planning to increase immigration fees. Fee waivers can help low-income immigrants but not all applicants are eligible, and some say the process can be long and challenging. A legal expert comments on this and gives practical advice to guide immigrants in the application, petition or request process. In other news, Colorado is the first state to create an unemployment assistance fund for undocumented immigrant workers. As part of the bill that Gov. Polis signed, the...

The school government in Fresno, CA, is hiring new chefs to oversee the quality of school meals, cook food with fresh ingredients, better respond to student tastes, and reduce food waste. Many families in Fresno report food insecurity and some say “without good nutrition there is no good education.” Last year, California became the first state in the nation to provide free school meals to all students. This program brings conversations with a local community leader and mothers who are in the frontlines, advocating for the new Universal Meals law in California and the changes to the school menu in...

The states of Coahuila and Mexico are having elections in June and émigrés from those states living abroad will be able to vote for governor if they register on time. What’s at stake in these state elections? How to vote from the US? This program includes an update on the trial in New York on drug trafficking charges of Genaro García Luna, the former top cop of Mexico. As the trial enters its final days, the Mexican government accuses Garcia Luna of stealing hundreds of millions of dollars from public contracts and seeks to recover that money from Florida, where...

Agriculture is a key pillar of California’s thriving economy. Yet, those working the fields face dire working conditions and serious health challenges. A new, landmark study shows many farmworkers in California live with chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure or have been infected with Covid-19 and don’t have health insurance. Most report food insecurity and do not qualify for unemployment insurance benefits. An author of the study discusses the findings and “the need for a deeper look at current policies, laws and practices in agricultural workplaces.”

The general hospital in Madera County closed its doors, leaving out many people who don’t have insurance in this rural, high-poverty area of Latino majorities. Community leaders fear other community hospitals in financial troubles around the state may follow Madera. What are the ramifications?

During the COVID-19 pandemic years, prescription opioid-related deaths and ED visits among Latinos experienced a surge. The opioid, mostly fentanyl-related overdose crisis is hitting teenagers particularly hard. While some states are giving people more access to emergency medications like naloxone, few in the community know about this lifesaving treatment. What’s the impact of this crisis on families and communities? What regions are most at risk? What policy approach should authorities take to reduce harm and deal with this crisis?

Vice President Kamala Harris announced nearly one billion in new private sector investment in Central America to support farmers, create textile jobs, and reduce migration. Will the new jobs encourage people to stay? On a related note, in his State of the Union speech, President Biden touted job growth and called for a path to citizenship for Dreamers, TPS recipients, farmworkers and essential workers, and more resources for the border. Finally, immigrants in the Northwest Detention Center recently staged a hunger strike to protest worsening detention conditions and authorities agreed to address the issues. An advocate gives an update.

Heavy winter storms in December and January caused levees to break and rivers to overflow in the San Joaquin Valley and Pajaro Valley, flooding thousands of farm working homes. Those rural communities suffered tens of millions of dollars in damage. Are those families getting the emergency assistance they need to rebuild and recover?

As the state of California develops a system that will notify schools and people when a hazardous pesticide is sprayed in neighboring farms, two journalists set out to report on the dramatic human toll that pesticide exposure is having on farm working families. This report features the heart-rending story of a family ravaged by the effects of those chemicals, their activism to raise awareness about pesticide use and misuse, insights from scientists and practical advice to avoid pesticide poisoning.

Remittances to Mexico rose to a new all-time high, reaching nearly $59 billion in 2022, an increase of more than 13 percent over 2021. Remittances, almost entirely sent from the United States, are the main source foreign income for Mexico. Analysts comment on this development and on the efforts to allow passports and consular IDs for emigres to open bank accounts in Mexico. This program includes an update on the trial in New York on drug trafficking charges of Genaro García Luna, the former top cop of Mexico.

The general hospital in Madera County closed its doors, leaving out many people who don’t have insurance in this rural, high-poverty area of Latino majorities. Community leaders fear other community hospitals in financial troubles around the state may follow Madera. What are the ramifications?

Advocates in New Mexico are working with legislators to bring back a bill to restore voting rights for people on probation or parole, after a similar package died in the Senate last year. The New Mexico Voting Rights Act would make it easier for people with felony convictions to participate in elections and extend some voting rights to 16-year-olds.

President Biden delivered his second State of the Union speech before a divided Congress and a House controlled by Republicans. As Republicans launch congressional investigations into his administration on matters like the handling of the border, Biden is expected to talk about the economy, the war in Ukraine, the looming debt-ceiling fight, gun violence and police reform. This is a report with highlights and analysis.

California health officials are fighting COVID-19 misinformation with a new Spanish-speaking health chatbot on the WhatsApp messaging platform. The “chat bot,” which is a digital assistant that allows the agency to communicate with people without live website service representatives, is also providing tips to stay healthy during Covid . Also, to simplify vaccination against Covid, the FDA is proposing annual one-dose shots. Under the new approach, most people would be advised to simply get whatever the latest version of the vaccine is annually each fall like the flu vaccine. This program includes analysis on the latest findings on long Covid,...

Immigrant rights advocates are denouncing a lawsuit filed by 20 Republican states against the Biden administration seeking to block the new parole program for migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. In other news, Colorado is the first state to create an unemployment assistance fund for undocumented immigrant workers. As part of the bill that Gov. Polis signed, the state legislature established the Benefit Recovery Fund, a separate fund for undocumented immigrants that will function similarly to the Unemployment Insurance Fund. Finally, Texas Gov. Abbott is hiring a “border czar” to speed up the building of a border wall. How...

After heavy pressure from Florida Gov. DeSantis, the College Board revised an official curriculum for its new Advanced Placement course in African American Studies. Students in Florida threatened to sue the state and the Republican governor if the blocked course is not reinstated.

175 years ago today, the US and Mexico signed the agreement that formalized the end of two years of war and the annexation of half of Mexico’s territory by the US. In this program, aired during the 150th anniversary 25 years ago, a renowned Chicano intellectual discusses the ramifications of that traumatic historical event.

Pages of the original Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, a document that transformed the US Southwest and the world, arrive in Denver today and are on display to mark the 175th anniversary of its signing. The treaty officially ended the U.S.-Mexico War, greatly expanded the US territory and changed the lives of Mexicans north of the Rio Grande forever. As Chicanos and Latinos become a majority in the US Southwest, community leaders and intellectuals deem the treaty a living document and are calling on the United Nations to investigate the state of human and land rights in Mexican communities north of...

Organized farm workers and Native American leaders are coming together in a cooperative partnership with a private water-management company to make water available for agriculture, housing, economic development and other uses for disadvantaged communities in an arid area where water is scarce. The historic project, geared to create the tools to adapt to the imminent threat of climate change, is set to benefit tribal and farmworker communities in California’s Coachella and Imperial Valleys and the Mojave desert. This is the first in a new radio series titled “Cuando se Seca el Arroyo…”

California health officials are fighting COVID-19 misinformation with a new Spanish-speaking health chatbot on the WhatsApp messaging platform. The “chat bot,” which is a digital assistant that allows the agency to communicate with people without live website service representatives, is also providing tips to stay healthy during Covid . Also, to simplify vaccination against Covid, the FDA is proposing annual one-dose shots. Under the new approach, most people would be advised to simply get whatever the latest version of the vaccine is annually each fall like the flu vaccine.

New Mexico lawmakers proposed last week a bill that would ban local governments and state agencies from beginning new contracts with ICE and private immigrant detention facilities. The bill would end contractual agreements at the Otero County Processing Center in southern New Mexico and watch others more closely.

Georgia Gov. Kemp declared a state of emergency to quell violent protests in Atlanta against the construction of a police training facility and the killing by a SWAT team of Manuel “Tortuguita” Terán, an environmental activist. An advocate comments about the killing, the conflict at “CopCity,” and the crackdown on environmental activists.

In New York, the trial started against Genaro García Luna, who was the top cop under former Mexican President Felipe Calderón, who, funded and equipped by the US, launched the Mexican drug war in 2006. Garcia Luna faces charges of colluding with powerful drug cartels. What will the trial reveal about the war on drugs? Will Garcia Luna implicate top Mexican and US officials?

This archival program features an interview with Petra Allende, “the mayoress of the East Harlem neighborhood.” Allende, a longtime neighbor and community advocate for civil rights, talks about the revitalization of the struggling and impoverished barrio after the arrival of new Mexican immigrants to East Harlem. Also, local Mexican business owners share stories about their high-risk investments in fondas, stores, and bodegas in a district formerly plagued with crime and drug trafficking. Originally aired on Sept 17, 1997.

Dozens of Guatemalan workers were left jobless and without pay after a Colorado mushroom mega-farm collapsed into despite receiving Covid relief. Some farm workers are now exploring the possibility of running the company themselves as a worker cooperative. The company is one of the largest employers in the San Luis Valley, which is the state’s lowest-income area.

A recent study showed that ExxonMobil’s own climate research accurately predicted the pace and severity of global warming. Despite that information, the company chose to publicly cast doubt for decades on climate science findings, including UN-sponsored research. UN leaders say “big oil peddled the big lie” and called on political and business leaders to speed the transition away from fossil fuels.

While Mexican, Chilean and Peruvian miners pioneered gold production in early California, they are hardly recognized in the official narrative about the history of the Golden State. Mexican and Latino mining camps were displaced by fortune seekers from the East Coast through “foreign miners license” laws. This archival program was originally aired on Feb 18, 1998 as part of a special series on California’s Sesquicentennial celebration.

The Biden Administration’s new asylum policy, including the proposed asylum transit ban, will have consequences similar to the ones of the Trump Administration. How are these policies likely to play out for asylum seekers from Central America, the Caribbean and elsewhere? Also, a new DHS policy allows certain undocumented workers to apply for deferred action, or protection from deportation, if they witnessed or are victims of labor violations and help in investigations. How big would the impact of this new policy be in the workplace and the immigrant working community?In another story, Florida state authorities are suing the Biden administration...

On the 50th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, Latina leaders reflect on the road ahead in the quest for reproductive health rights. Latinas are the largest group of women of color to be impacted by the recent decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and current or likely state abortion bans. About 6.5 million Latinas live in the 26 states that are restricting access to abortion. How is their health, economy and life being impacted

Mexican miners on strike from Cananea asked for President López Obrador intervention to comply with a request by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights to protect labor rights. A negotiating panel was scheduled to meet this week. Labor analysts discuss the outcome. This program includes a report on the beginning of the trial in New York over drug trafficking charges against Genaro Garcia Luna, former top security officer in Mexico.

In this archival interview, Cuban-American writer and community activist Evelio Grillo talks about his life growing up in Tampa, FL, in the early 20th Century, experiencing discrimination for being Black, immigrant, poor and Spanish speaker. Grillo dedicated the last years of his life to build bridges between African-Americans and Latinos in Oakland, CA. This interview originally aired on MLK Day on Jan 19, 1998. This program includes a recent interview with Dr. Bernice King, daughter of MLK Jr, about her efforts to promote a “Beloved Community Mindset.”

The recent hospitalization of an NFL star put the story of brain trauma in the headlines. Less reported is the story that domestic violence victims suffer from head injuries more often than football players and soldiers who survive wars. Still, domestic violence survivors often go undiagnosed and untreated. Experts comment on this from Colorado, a state that’s seeing a spike in domestic violence deaths during the Covid-19 pandemic months.

This week, the US reached its public debt ceiling. Treasury Secretary, Janet Yellen, warned that if Congress does not authorize expanding that cap, the damage to the country's economy could be irreparable. Congress usually authorizes the increase, but this time the political gridlock calls into question the will to do so. What are the risks if the debt is not increased? Who oppose it and why? Can the crisis be averted?

In California, millions of people have been under evacuation orders or warnings due to heavy rains and widespread floods. A news contributor reports on the plight of the town of Planada and other Central Valley communities that have been under flood waters, and emergency officials advise on existing evacuation alerts and help available for clean up and recovery.

During the North American Leaders’ Summit, the leaders of the US, Mexico and Canada talked about “their commitment to work together to achieve safe, orderly, and humane migration in the region.” What new migration measures are expected at the US-Mexican border? What to expect about the agreement to fight against migrant discrimination? Also, another Mexican journalist is seeking asylum in the US, alleging he was kidnapped and tortured by Mexican security agents. His attorney talks about how the current system was unable to protect the journalist. Also, a group of evangelical faith leaders sent a letter to President Biden and...

In this holiday edition, the daughter of Dr. King talks about the efforts of The King Center to cultivate a “beloved community mindset” to honor and respect different peoples; a leader in philanthropy calls for a national day of conversations on racial healing and racial equity; and a Latina civil rights leader reflects on how Georgia is once again a frontline in the fight for voting rights.

Republicans gained control of the US House with the help of a few seats won in California, including Latino-majority districts in the heart of the Central Valley. Republicans were able to capture congressional seats in districts that widely supported Biden in the last presidential election. A veteran political analyst comments on these results and on the recent state decision to let a community commission redraw the boundaries of the political districts to ensure fairer representation for Latinos in Fresno County.

Political analysts discuss the takeaways of the North American Leaders Summit in the Mexican capital. President López Obrador was expected to address plans for solar parks in Sonora, selling Mexican clean energy to California and the US, and imports of transgenic corn. President Biden had migration and public security on his agenda. Also, they comment on the political ramifications of the arrest of a major drug cartel leader in Sinaloa.

Public health officials expect a rise in Covid-19 cases as millions of people travel and gather indoors for the holidays. Hospitalization admissions are surging, compounded by flu and RSV infections. Analysts comment on how to prevent infection or reinfection, at-home test kits and booster shots. They also talk about reports that people of color are dying at worse rates than previously known and on the emergence of a new and more transmissible Covid variant.

The recent hospitalization of an NFL star put the story of brain trauma in the headlines. Less reported is the story that domestic violence victims suffer from head injuries more often than football players and soldiers who survive wars. Still, domestic violence survivors often go undiagnosed and untreated. Experts comment on this from Colorado, a state that’s seeing a sike in domestic violence deaths during the Covid-19 pandemic months.

The Omnibus bill signed by President Biden includes new retirement savings provisions – known as Secure 2.0 – that could make it easier to accumulate retirement savings — and make it less costly to withdraw them. The provisions include requiring employers to automatically enroll employees in 401(k) plans, allowing employer contributions for student loan payments, increasing the age for required minimum distributions and raising catch-up contribution limits for older workers.

After announcing that almost one million immigrants became US citizens in the last fiscal year, the federal government is proposing a naturalization fee increase. An immigration lawyer comments on the proposed fee increases, how to get fee waivers or reduced fees, and answers listeners’ questions on their applications for permanent residence or other immigration proceedings. Also, an advocate comments on Texas’ challenge to Biden’s new and more flexible rules on public charge.

This is an archival interview with Chilean-Californian folk and New Song singer and composer Rafael Manríquez. The interview, originally aired on Dec 20, 1996 after his return from a tour in Chile, focuses on his recently released album “Canto a Gabriela,” a collection of songs with poems by Nobel Laureate Gabriela Mistral. This program includes an unpublished song by the singer-composer, who passed away almost ten years ago.

Blocked by a fraction of far-right rebels, the Republican majority in the House has failed to elect the next speaker and without a leader, Congress can’t convene, vote on any rules or pass any legislation. What’s driving this Republican infight? What does this historic deadlock portend for the next two years?

President López Obrador is meeting on Monday with President Biden as part of the three-day Summit of North American Leaders in Mexico City. Among the topics expected to be discussed are the migration crisis on the US-Mexico border and the Sonora Plan for renewable energy, as well as plans for increased trade and development. Political analysts comment on this news. This program includes a report on the end of the holiday period known as the Guadalupe-Reyes Marathon, with the celebration of the Three Wise Kings.

In this bilingual cookbook, Maria Luisa Urdaneta tackles diabetes, the growing epidemic in the Mexican-American community, providing over 200 recipes for some of the most popular Mexican dishes, such as guacamole, beans, Spanish rice, chile rellenos, chile con carne, chalupas, enchiladas, fajitas, menudo, tamales, and more. The recipes are modified to suit people with diabetes and all those who want to reduce the fats and calories in their diet without giving up the food they love. It’s announced as a “one-stop guide to cooking and eating guilt-free Mexican food.” This interview first aired in 1997.

Public health officials expect a rise in Covid-19 cases as millions of people travel and gather indoors for the holidays. Hospitalization admissions are surging, compounded by flu and RSV infections. Analysts comment on how to prevent infection or reinfection, at-home test kits and booster shots. They also talk about reports that people of color are dying at worse rates than previously known.

As we look forward to the new year, news producers reflect on the issues that may shape Línea Abierta’s coverage in 2023. Plans include continuing covering the escalating climate disasters such as wildfires and heat waves, the West’s mega drought and its impact on the Colorado River and agriculture, overfishing and ocean justice communities, access to health care during the Covid-19 pandemic, the fight over abortion after the midterms, hate crimes and domestic terrorism, the border crisis and efforts to reduce barriers to naturalization, the kick off of the presidential primary season, and more.

When President Lázaro Cárdenas decreed the expropriation of the oil industry in 1938, the people of Mexico turned to paying compensation to foreign companies. Almost eight decades later, the filmmaker once again summons Mexicans to finance the filming of “1938, When Oil Was Ours”, a film that rescues from the archives that great act of unity between people and government. The film, featuring well-known actors Damián Alcázar and Ofelia Medina, will premiere in 2023, during the commemorations of the 85th anniversary of the Oil Expropriation. Martha Elena Ramírez hosts the program Voz Pública, from Mexico City. This program was originally...

Policy analysts comment on news developments that may impact immigrant communities during 2023, including the situation of Dreamers and asylum seekers, whose fate is being decided by the courts, the efforts in Congress to legalize farmworkers through the Farm Worker Modernization Act or the Affordable and Secure Food Act and also bills to help deported veterans, the push for Universal Representation, and the plans to increase naturalizations. In other news: Facing a lawsuit for illegally transferring immigrants from the local jail to ICE, the Sacramento Sheriff has agreed to change their policies to comply with two pro-immigrant state laws: the...

Every first of January, musicians from the towns of Río Arriba in New Mexico and Colorado brighten up the first hours of the new year. For centuries, folk troubadours have been heard singing in the cold streets from New Year’s Eve until dawn. The custom is known as “saying the days” (dar los dias) and it is a serenade to raise the spirits of the people in the early hours of the year. Keepers of the tradition talk about this community celebration and the so-called Alabados, the spiritual folk songs that survive in Rio Arriba. This program originally aired on...

With the year drawing to a close, this edition offers a look back at some of the biggest news events of 2022. This year, Línea Abierta headlined Mexico-US disputes and achievements in the implementation of USMCA, Mexico’s presidential recall election, the quest for justice of the Ayotzinapa parents, the impact of inflation on Mexican retailers, and a landmark court ruling declaring migrant checks on buses racist. Also, people in Mexico City comment on the most common rituals and traditions to celebrate New Year’s eve and find good luck in the year to come.

In this interview, author Reyna Grande talks about her recent novel A Ballad of Love and Glory, a story inspired by the 1846 US war against Mexico and the dramatic fate of the San Patricios, the Irish soldiers who fought on Mexico’s side. It’s the love story of Ximena, a Mexican healer serving as an army nurse on the frontlines, and John, an Irish immigrant in the US Army who formed the San Patricio Battalion.

As part of the Omnibus bill, the Senate passed new retirement savings provisions – known as Secure 2.0 – that could make it easier to accumulate retirement savings — and make it less costly to withdraw them. The provisions include requiring employers to automatically enroll employees in 401(k) plans, allowing employer contributions for student loan payments, increasing the age for required minimum distributions and raising catch-up contribution limits for older workers.

The mayor of El Paso, Texas, declared a state of emergency in order to better manage an increased influx of migrant arrivals over the expected ending of the Trump-era Title 42 policy. Also, Texas Governor Abbott urged the Attorney General to open an investigation into organizations providing legal and humanitarian assistance to immigrants. Finally, the nation’s largest college program for immigrant youth announced the opening of its new round of scholarship applications. This year, which marks the tenth round of scholarship applications, the organization is making opportunities available to more Dreamers.

This Holiday edition features a conversation with Afro-Peruvian singer Marina Lavalle, former vocalist for the folk group Perú Negro in the San Francisco Bay Area. Lavalle, who is a long-time promoter of Peru’s Black culture traditions, talks about the musical play “Black Christmas”, which features the birth of a Black Christ amid the rhythms of Dance of Negritos. She also talks about the end-of-year traditional Creole festivities in Peru’s Black South, in the coastal province of Cañete, when people go out to dance and sing with musical instruments such as the donkey jaw and the cajón.

Mexican Posadas are a yearly Christmas Mexican tradition representing the pilgrimage of Mary and Joseph, where children go singing from house to house asking for treats and shelter. How do Mexicans celebrate Posadas in the time of Covid, Internet and cell phones?

In this bilingual cookbook, Maria Luisa Urdaneta tackles diabetes, the growing epidemic in the Mexican-American community, providing over 200 recipes for some of the most popular Mexican dishes, such as guacamole, beans, Spanish rice, chile rellenos, chile con carne, chalupas, enchiladas, fajitas, menudo, tamales, and more. The recipes are modified to suit people with diabetes and all those who want to reduce the fats and calories in their diet without giving up the food they love. It’s announced as a “one-stop guide to cooking and eating guilt-free Mexican food.” This interview first aired in 1997.

US scientists produced for the first time in history a nuclear fusion reaction. Through this breakthrough experiment, scientists were able to reproduce the power of the sun, producing more energy that it took to start the reaction, opening the doors for a boundless source of clean energy, which could help end dependence on fossil fuels. What does this achievement mean for the climate crisis? When would it be available to consumers?

The U.S. House passed a bill that would allow Puerto Rico to hold the first-ever binding referendum on whether residents wish to become a state or an independent country, or remain associated with the US, in a last-ditch effort that stands little chance of passing the Senate. The Puerto Rico Status Act, which received some Republican support, proposes a plebiscite to be held on November 5, 2023, to resolve Puerto Rico's political status and force Congress to take action on the option Puerto Ricans choose.

Thirty years after the release of the international best-seller Like Water for Chocolate, acclaimed author Laura Esquivel announced the release of a follow-up trilogy collection. The second book, Tita’s Diary, explores the novel’s main character, her passion for traditional food and offers new recipes, like corundas and champurrado, on time for the holidays. The Colors of My Past, the third book, centers on Maria who, after suffering sexist and racist attacks and losing connection with the food and cooking of her ancestors, is able to find her way back to her family roots. This trilogy is for those who love...

Amid objections from leading Republicans who invoke a “border crisis,” Senate talks on immigration legislation put forward by Tillis-Sinema have stalled. Now what? Also, in Denver, the Mayor issued an emergency declaration for the city and county of Denver in response to the arrival of about 250 migrants over the past 10 days. The declaration allows the city, businesses and residents to apply for funding from the federal and state governments. Finally, a group of neighbors from Arizona’s borderlands put a stop to the construction of a shipping container border wall started by Gov. Ducey in October in the Coronado...

The Biden administration is again making COVID-19 tests available for free as part of a contingency plan as cases rise this winter. The four rapid virus tests per household are available through covidtests.gov. A new surge of cases is projected from indoor gathering and travel around Christmas and New Year’s. Also, antiviral Paxlovid treatment, which reduces hospitalizations, is more available for those who test positive for Covid, but many patients while eligible are not using them. These and other news are discussed in this edition.

Arizona’s Proposition 308 would restore in-state tuition eligibility to undocumented students. In another news, Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar certified that the nearly 50 migrants flown to Martha’s Vineyard were victims of a crime and can now apply for a U visa as protected witnesses. Also, ag industry leaders from Midwest states pushed for immigration reform as a solution to address increasing food prices and farm labor shortages and urged the Senate to take up the Farm Workforce Modernization Act, a bill passed by the House. Finally, community leaders call on the Biden administration to stop plans to continue building...

A lighter package of election reforms passed the Mexican House and moved to the Senate after the opposition in the House blocked a comprehensive electoral reform. The so-called “Plan B” is now focused on changes to secondary laws and limits the power of the federal elections authority to sanction political parties. Guests analysts examine the provisions impacting voting rights of Mexican living abroad. An elections official also comments on the local elections next year in the states of Coahuila and Mexico, and how to vote from abroad.

Academic researchers are launching a digital archive built by college students and volunteer fans to document the history of soccer in the San Joaquin Valley and how migration has shaped the culture of soccer in these farm working communities. The organizer of the archive comments on the current World Cup fever impacting Latino communities, and the way immigrant communities are transforming the kicking game. This and other news stories are discussed in this edition.

As the LGBTQ community is facing violent attacks and after months of negotiations, the US Congress passed a bill protecting same-sex and interracial marriages. President Biden has said he will sign the measure. Advocates and legislators explain the bill and examine its ramifications.

Due in part to the Covid pandemic, lengthy backlogs in the renewal applications have caused long delays on green card extensions. What is the federal government doing to expedite the application process? How are these delays impacting the plans of many residents to travel to Mexico during the holidays? Is it safe to travel with an expired Green Card? In another story, an expert discusses what the new public charge regulations do for immigrant families, in areas such as healthcare and food access, and how to take full advantage of the change.

Sodas and sugary drinks are the leading contributors to the high prevalence of childhood and teen obesity and tooth decay, and type 2 diabetes. In a new report coinciding with National Diabetes Month, Los Angeles County public health authorities warn that Black and Latino children have the highest rates of sugary drinks consumption. How to help the most affected children and their families?

Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ) are working on a immigration reform plan that would provide a permanent pathway to legalization for 2 million Dreamers, increase funding for border security, and extend Title 42. Immigrant advocates and legislators comment on this development and on a bill sponsored by Rep. Joaquin Castro that would help deported veterans and make it easier for noncitizen members of the Armed Forces to apply for naturalization. Finally, an academic report reveals how information collected by digital surveillance systems is shared with federal immigration and law enforcement agencies and advocates worry about the impact...

As we enter another holiday winter season, COVID-19 and other viruses are spreading widely and things are getting worse. Cases of coronavirus, flu and respiratory syncytial infections are rapidly rising in communities around the country. What to do in anticipation of the holiday gatherings? Who should worry most about this new surge? What to know about the updated vaccine? What to do if testing positive?

Leaders of the Mayo tribe in Northern Mexico are protesting plans by a German company to build a large ammonia plant in the shoreline of Ohuira Bay, in the state of Sinaloa, putting in danger fishing communities and mangroves. This and other topics are discussed in this weekly edition.

California’s prolonged drought is forcing the San Joaquin Valley to put hundreds of thousands acres out of production, causing the loss of thousands of jobs. This worsening crisis, exacerbated by climate change, may lead to a drought-driven migration of Dust Bowl proportions. What’s the impact of the current drought on farm working families? Are they really leaving or thinking about leaving the valley in a mass farmworker flight? News reporters visited Huron, a community in West Fresno County surrounded by fallow agricultural lands, hit hard by the drought, and heard from farmworkers and city officials. Listeners call in and share...

Researchers were surprised to find out that teachers experienced significantly more anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic than healthcare workers who were on the frontlines of the public health crisis. Those teaching remotely reported substantially higher rates of depression and feelings of isolation than those teaching in person. This and other topics are discussed in this edition.

This is a live report from Atlanta on the first results in the tight race for Georgia’s Senate seat held by Democrat Raphael Warnock, who recently won it in a political upset. Guest analysts examine the results in this formerly reliably Republican state, and provide analysis on the regional and national ramifications, and on the road ahead.

Today, the campaigns in the Georgia Senate race are pulling out all the stops to turn out voters. The runoff election is held today, after a new state election law cut short the early in-person voting period and the time to cast absentee ballots, and limited drop-box access. Guest analysts provide live updates on Election Day and perspective on the Senate race and the issues at stake.

Sodas and sugary drinks are the leading contributors to the high prevalence of childhood and teen obesity and tooth decay, and type 2 diabetes. In a new report coinciding with National Diabetes Month, Los Angeles County public health authorities warn that Black and Latino children have the highest rates of sugary drinks consumption.How to help the most affected children and their families?

Radio Educación, the station owned by Mexico’s Culture Secretariat, is celebrating 98 years since it was founded by then Education Secretary Jose Vasconcelos in 1924. At the anniversary event, Radio Educación is recognizing Radio Bilingüe with the Jose Vasconcelos Public Radio Award. Officials reflect on milestones of the decades-long history of cross-border collaboration between the two public radio networks.

More than 3,000 local leaders from across the country recently met in Kansas City to discuss solutions to a wide range of issues facing cities, including public safety, homelessness and housing affordability, mental health, immigration, infrastructure investments, and the threat of the climate crisis.

In this archival interview, originally aired on July 5, 1996, internationally acclaimed harp virtuoso Alfredo Rolando Ortiz talks about his then newly-premiered “South American Suite for Harp and Orchestra,” performed with Tulare’s Philharmonic Orchestra at that time. The Paraguayan Harp soloist also talks about the history of harp music and his compositions. This is a special repeat from our historic archives.

This novel by acclaimed author Juan Villoro tells the story of a Mexican documentary filmmaker who talks in his sleep. He moves to Barcelona, but, after the visit of an old acquaintance, the past catches up with him like a nightmare. For the filmmaker, the dream of a Mexican “land of great promise” burns at the beginning of the novel, during the fire at the Cineteca Nacional, and turns into a nightmare of corruption, drug trafficking, homophobia and other signs of the times.

The top leader of California’s health system joins this edition to warn people that as we head into the winter, the state should prepare for a spike in Covid cases because more people gather indoors. He advises about protective measures to prepare for holiday gatherings and travel. He also talks about who is at highest risk of long Covid and discusses the benefits of the new, updated booster shots.

Calling it a “catastrophic disrespect for human rights,” a senator from Georgia released the results of a bipartisan investigation into medical abuse of women detainees in a federal immigration detention center. The investigators found that women detained in Georgia were subjected to abuse and forced medical procedures and surgeries. What changes can be expected in the oversight of the questioned centers?

As we enter the winter and holiday weeks, Covid cases and hospitalizations are rising. And while people have higher levels of immunity and Covid treatments available, many have lowered the guard. In this program, a medical expert discusses the benefits of getting the bivalent booster, testing regularly, and making a plan for what to do in case of Covid infection, and how to access little known but effective treatments.

Thanksgiving, the US national celebration, is also known as Turkey Day, and is generally associated with family turkey dinners. Few know that this bird, Guajolote, was originally domesticated by the ancient Aztecas and Mayas in Mexico. As it traveled through the world, it became a holiday staple in kitchens in the US and Europe. In today’s Mexico, guajolotes or cóconos are raised more in homes or ranches than at an industrial scale and this “plate that Mexico gave to the world” is more often used in everyday cooking in recipes of mole, tamales or tortas.

Known for centuries as the Aztec Calendar, the old monolith of Mexica culture is now being called the Sun Stone. As a researcher explains, the basaltic disc is not a calendar, it’s a history book. This archival interview, originally aired on Sep 12, 1995, is a National Native American Heritage Month Special.

Concerned about the recent rise of anti-Semitism and hate speech, and after racist remarks involving Los Angeles city leaders, communities and activists around Los Angeles engaged in a week of coordinated activities as part of the annual event “United Against Hate.” Through this campaign to “report and resist hate,” organizers are raising awareness on hate incidents and crimes.

The recent casting of Mexican actor Tenoch Huerta in the movie Black Panther 2 has sparked excitement in Latin American for the leading roles of Latino characters, but also controversy about the continuing portrayal of Latinos as villains in movies. A college professor and her students evaluate the movie and also reflect on the history of underrepresentation of Latinos in the media industry.

As Congress returns for the lame-duck session, many are descending on Washington urging Congress to pass permanent legislative protections for immigrant youth and DACA recipients before the end of the year. In another story, Texas Gov. Greg Abbot is declaring immigration from Mexico an “invasion” and he is ordering to take “unprecedented measures” to defend the state. Finally, a federal judge blocked border rule Title 42, a policy that allowed the US to expel more than one million migrants.

After the midterms, Republicans won control of the House and Washington will now have a divided Congress. What to expect from a government with a divided Congress in areas such as immigration and climate change? What can and should Democrats do before they deliver the House? How are voters taking Trump’s new presidential campaign? How do they take the priorities announced by the new House leader?

Thousands of Mexican workers living in the US left in Mexico individual retirement savings accounts known as AFORE. Many now wonder how to locate and access their accounts. A financial expert talks about what people living in the US need to know to access the benefits of the Retirement Savings System and the AFORE account in Mexico. He also comments on the impact on Mexicans living abroad of a proposed bill to take money from inactive Mexican bank accounts and send them to a government fund. This and other topics are discussed in this edition.

New Mexico voted last week to make pre-K a universal right. A ballot measure will make New Mexico the first state in the country to guarantee a constitutional right to early childhood education. The measure gives lawmakers the green light to provide a dedicated funding stream for universal preschool and child care. An advocate explains this plan and discusses the road ahead for citizens. How to watch political decisions and hold elected representatives accountable after having cast their ballots?

While anyone can get sick from COVID-19, older adults and people infected twice or more have a much higher risk of death, hospitalization and other complications. The risk of getting seriously ill is increased among Latinos 50 years and older. What protections are provided by the updated booster? Are there risks to receiving a catch-up booster dose among older adults? When should seniors get this updated booster? How to plan for the holidays?

President Biden spoke at the UN summit on climate change, known as COP27, highlighting that his recent law providing historic spending on clean energy will “change the paradigm” and confirms the US commitment to reduce emissions and fight global warming. Also, the US Climate Envoy John Kerry announced a new and controversial carbon-credit plan to boost investments in low-income countries to help them transition from fossil fuel to clean energy. Environmentalists call this a “greenwashing” tactic.

California’s prolonged drought is forcing the San Joaquin Valley to put hundreds of thousands acres out of production, causing the loss of thousands of jobs. This worsening crisis, exacerbated by climate change, may lead to a drought-driven migration of Dust Bowl proportions. What’s the impact of the current drought on farm working families? Are they really leaving or thinking about leaving the valley in a mass farmworker flight? News reporters visited Huron, a community in West Fresno County surrounded by fallow agricultural lands, hit hard by the drought, and heard from farmworkers and city officials. Listeners call in and share...

The battle for Senate control in Georgia, Nevada and Arizona and the pivotal role Latino voters play in the outcome of these key races. Close House races in California and the takeaways of the race for Mayor in Los Angeles. Important under the radar races and propositions during the midterms. And Gen Z voters shake up the midterms.

A political analyst examines the US midterm election results and their impact on the bilateral relationship with Mexico and the expectations in Mexico about the new political landscape in Washington and border states. In another story, President López Obrador is proposing an electoral reform, which could change the National Electoral Institute (INE) and make way for a new centralized body to organize the electoral process. These and other topics are discussed in this weekly edition.

Voting in the midterms is over. Political analysts discuss the takeaways from the outcome. Did Democrats retain control of Congress? Did Trump-backed candidates win influential statewide posts? What’s the outlook for 2024?

Half of Californians skipped or postponed health care in 2021 due to excessive costs of deductibles, copays and out-of-pocket expenses. Many are undocumented immigrants who report high levels of poverty and lack of health insurance. Health officials encourage Latinos aged 50 and older, regardless of immigration status, to learn about the Medi-Cal Seniors Expansion Act and eligibility requirements. Tens of thousands who could, are not accessing the benefits of Medi-Cal.

Brazil begins a presidential transition after the tightest election in the country’s democratic history, marred by disinformation campaigns and political violence. Now former President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva faces a legacy of high unemployment, public debt and environmental disaster from far-right incumbent Jair Bolsonaro. How will the new president navigate the pitfalls of a divided country? How will he save the Amazon, also known as the planet’s lungs? What’s the expected impact on US-Brazil relations?

On the day after Election Day, correspondents bring reports on the first results. They also report on the steps to follow to count, validate and certify the votes, a process that may take time, amid expected questioning about the integrity of the system from right-wing activists.

The first results of the midterm election are in and now the count and certifying begins. Who will control Congress may not be known for days or weeks, depending on the legal challenges from deniers. Will Republicans deny the results of the election? President Biden is expected to deliver remarks on the midterm elections. This edition brings news and analysis about the outcome.

Millions around the nation go out to cast their ballot on Election Day. News contributors bring live reports about voter turnout in states where the fight for the US House and governorships may be fueling the vote. Listeners are encouraged to call in to report about their experience at the registration or polling place. Experts explain legal protections available for voters.

Nearly 35 million Latinos are eligible to vote, though about one third are likely to turn out to vote. They could elect a record number of Latinos to the US House and may determine which party controls Congress. As voting winds down in East Coast states, correspondents in battleground states file live reports on voter turnout, last efforts to get out the vote, and efforts to protect voters and election voters against intimidation.

California is the site of some of the most contested battlegrounds in the fight for the US House. What are the races to watch? This segment includes a report on the tight race for LA Mayor and a state proposition to establish the constitutional right to an abortion and contraception. Also, some of the most contested races for the state legislature, headlined by Latinas, are in the purple Central Valley. This segment includes a report on controversial Measure C, a measure to fund local roads and streets and faces questions about equity.

The voting power of young Latino voters continues to grow as every 30 seconds a young Latino turns 18. In 2018 and 2020, young voters ages 18-29 turned out in record numbers. How energized are they during this election season? What issues are inspiring them to head to the polls and what problems are dampening their enthusiasm?

Do the US midterm elections matter to Mexicans in Mexico? Analysts comment on this topic. They also talk about the visit of US climate envoy John Kerry to Hermosillo, where he met with President López Obrador to discuss lithium production and clean energy plans. This program includes a report on this week’s Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico City.

The top leader of California’s health system joins this edition to warn people that as we head into the winter, the state should prepare for a spike in Covid cases because more people gather indoors. He advises about protective measures to prepare for holiday gatherings and travel. He also talks about who is at highest risk of long Covid and discusses the benefits of the new, updated booster shots.

“Artivista” Martha González was awarded the prestigious MacArthur Fellowship, also known as a “genius grant,” given to extraordinarily talented and creative individuals. A college professor, González is also the lead singer, songwriter and percussionist for the group Quetzal. González promotes social justice action through community dialogue, musical performance and arts education. She says she “uses art to combat racism by creating cultural bridges.”

A number of Latina candidates are running for seats in the state legislature and could make history in California’s Central Valley. Statewide, the number of women legislators could rise to history-making records. What’s driving this surge? What’s the outlook for Nov 8? What races to watch?

With millions of voters, including Latinos, casting their ballots in person or by mail, early turnout is surging. In this program, listeners call in to share their feelings about the midterm election. They are invited to talk about how close they are following the midterm election, what are the key issues in their mind, and how they get the information to make their decisions.

President Biden kicked off the application process for the student debt cancellation program. He announced that 22 million borrowers had already applied only in the first week. While the plan has been temporarily halted by a court, the debt relief application is still open and applications continue. Who qualifies? How does it work?

Immigrant-rights groups are leading campaigns to mobilize voters to go to the polls in support of candidates running for local, state or federal office who support policies that protect immigrant families and communities. Through rallies, text messaging, live calls, and house visits, organizers encourage newly naturalized citizens to flex their political muscle. Community leaders in battleground states discuss their plans.

The Spanish-language radio series “Comadres al Aire” returns to the national airwaves for a second season of news stories and conversations focusing on taboo topics of special interest to women, such as reproductive health, sex education, mental health, breastfeeding, and issues for non-binary and transgender people. The two award-winning journalists and program hosts share highlights of the new series.

Early voting is underway and voters are heading to the polls at record rates in this midterm election. Despite disinformation campaigns and voting restrictions in some states, observers predict high and possibly record-breaking turnout. Civic leaders discuss their efforts to get out the vote.

Reporters and analysts share headline news on the major battles for Congress and governor in these border states.

President López Obrador is scheduled to meet with US climate envoy John Kerry in Hermosillo, on the northern border. The meeting is to discuss progress on clean energy and climate change, as well as plans to turn the state of Sonora into a green energy center by expanding solar energy and lithium production. This and other stories are discussed in this edition.

Democratic Assemblyman Adam Gray and republican farmer John Duarte face off in Congressional District 13, an agricultural area in California’s Central Valley. The outcome of the race in this recently-created district could determine the balance of power in the House.

Gun violence in the Latino community has increased exponentially compared to the rest of the nation. This is the leading cause of death among young Latinos. An expert discusses the costs of gun violence in the Latino community and the gun policies that are being crafted to bring safety to the ravaged communities.

Thousands of households in Colorado have benefitted from emergency rental assistance since the pandemic began but the funding is running out. Some local programs are already dry and evictions are returning to pre-pandemic levels. Where is money still available for tenants and how to benefit?

Two years ago, Democrat Christy Smith lost to Republican Congressman Mike Garcia by about 330 votes in California District 27. She is now coming for the rematch against the Trump ally, in a race that is being watched nationwide because it could play a key role in the control of the House. Both candidates have been invited to this special election edition.

The Biden administration will invest millions in California’s San Joaquin Valley to create an agriculture-technology hub and promote new, ag-tech and engineering-based jobs. But some worry these initiatives may not lead to better jobs for farmworkers.

Proposition 308, allowing any Arizona student, including the undocumented, to be eligible for in-state tuition and state financial aid at state universities and community colleges, is in the Arizona ballot. In other news, the warden of a private prison and his brother, a county jail employee, are in custody charged with killing a migrant and wounding another one in a Texas border area. Were they hunting migrants? These and more stories are discussed in this edition.

Three women are running for governor in Oregon, in one of the tightest races in the country. With help from a billionaire donor, a conservative Republican has a chance to become governor in one of the most progressive states. A political analyst looks into this unlikely race and the race for Oregon’s newest House district, where a Democrat is hoping to become Oregon’s first Latina elected to Congress.

The Jan 6 Committee issued a subpoena to former President Trump for testimony and for documents. What are the next moves?

Georgia, a conservative Southern state, has become a swing state for the first time in decades in the battle for the governorship and the US Senate. What are the defining issues in those critical races? Guest analysts comment on that and about the voters who may be most affected by the new, restrictive state voting laws.

The Mexican congress passed a bill which would allow the federal government to use the savings of Mexicans who have inactive bank accounts to finance security tasks. Under this project, inactive accounts would be those that have not been used for six years. This and other stories are discussed in this edition.

Voters in Fresno County are being asked to renew Measure C, the transportation plan that allocates half-cent sales tax money for spending on bike lanes, street widening, sidewalks and gutters. Social justice groups oppose the measure arguing that community input was not included in the design, small communities and neighborhoods without basic infrastructure are being left behind, and not enough funds are invested in public transportation. Supporters of the Yes and No campaigns give their arguments.

Los Angeles: Recovering from a Political Quake. Los Angeles is mired in political scandal after the release of a tape containing racist slurs by Latino city leaders. What are the takeaways? How to rebuild trust between communities?

Republican Rep. David Valadao is engaged in a heated battle for reelection against Democratic state assemblyman Rudy Salas, in one of the most watched races in the battle for control of the US House. The district is majority Latino and the race is tight, despite the Democrats registration advantage. Both candidates are invited to join this program.

Billionaire developer Rick Caruso, a former Republican, is trying to be the new mayor in Los Angeles, a liberal stronghold, against the runner up, US Rep. Karen Bass, who could become the first Black woman to lead the nation’s second largest city. The battle, on the heels of a scandalous recording of racist slurs by city council members, has centered on hot issues such as policing, crime prevention, affordable housing, and homelessness. The turnout of Latino voters is widely expected to decide the election.

On the occasion of National Latino AIDS Awareness Day, public health officials give a report on the state of HIV among Latinos and the efforts to end the HIV epidemic. As Latino communities are among the most affected, public health leaders launch the campaign “Celebro mi Salud,” to promote prevention and encourage people with HIV to seek care, stay in care, and achieve viral suppression using HIV medication.

Right-wing conspiracy theorist Alex Jones was ordered to pay Sandy Hook families almost a billion dollars for spreading lies that the massacre was a hoax. A father of a high school massacre victim from Parkland and an activist from Uvalde talk about this verdict and about a jury’s decision to recommend life in prison, not death sentence, for the school shooter who killed 17. Also, since Jones is also known for pushing conspiracy theories about the election and rallying the crowd that attacked the Us Capitol, what is the potential impact of this verdict on the spreading of the Big...

California began sending tax-refund checks to about 23 million state residents to help them cope with the rising cost of gas and inflation. Similar payments are being sent to taxpayers in other states.

In the aftermath of the devastation of Hurricane Ian, what is Florida doing to ensure access to the polls to all Floridians in the upcoming midterm election? Are there any emergency plans? This program also includes a look at the most competitive races in the state, including the critical battles for governor and for the US Senate.

After a US judge dismissed Mexico’s lawsuit holding US gun makers responsible for the deadly flow of weapons to the drug cartels, Mexico is preparing to file a new lawsuit in Arizona targeting gun shops and dealers in the US. Experts are invited to comment on this and other news stories.

California began sending tax-refund checks to about 23 million state residents to help them cope with the rising cost of gas and inflation. Similar payments are being sent to taxpayers in other states. In other news, in the face of a megadrought, record heat waves and wildfires, Gov. Gavin Newsom and other West Coast governors signed a major climate agreement to invest more in electric vehicles, renewable energy and forest treatment. These and other news are reported and discussed in this edition.

Colorado children from low- and middle-income families may receive up to 20 hours a week of free preschool under a state’s draft plan. Currently, the law guarantees ten hours a week for all 4-year-olds. The new, universal preschool program will be in the fall of next year.

Latinos are entering this midterm election as the second largest group of voters in the US. Will they flex their political muscle? In recent programs, listener have mentioned inflation/economy, public safety, immigration, abortion and gun violence among their top concerns. Are those issues motivating them to go to the polls? What are their plans for the midterm election? Listeners are encouraged to share their views on the air.

In California, officials are already mailing out ballots for the general election next month. Voters will make a decision on seven ballot propositions, including one on reproductive rights. They will also have a say in the fight to control the US House, since some of the battlefield districts are in the state. Reporters give an overview about selected propositions and congressional and state races to watch.

President Biden pardons thousands of people convicted on federal charges of marijuana possession and he is urging governors to pardon those convicted under state laws. In another story, California became the first state to create an office of gun violence prevention to deal with the public-health crisis of gun violence, firearm injury, and trauma. These and other news are discussed in this edition.

After a court ruled against the DACA program, Biden’s Department of Justice vowed to appeal the decision. The court determined that DACA is illegal but let the protections continue in place for now. What does this ruling mean for DACA beneficiaries? In another story, in spite of Gov. DeSantis’ hostile rhetoric, migrants are showing up in Florida to help clean up and rebuild after Hurricane Ian’s disaster. Analysts discuss this and other news developments in this edition.

Newly naturalized citizens can sway the outcome in states that are going to be a battleground for control of Congress in the midterm election. California, a battleground for the US House, is home to the largest population of newly naturalized citizens. To encourage their participation, organizations around California and the nation are launching a campaign to update citizens on voter rights, voter registration and voting resources.

Misinformation on social networks targeting Latino voters is increasing and many Latinos depend on Internet platforms for information. Pointing out that social media companies are not cracking down on incidents of disinformation, advocates are launching a “defend the Truth” campaign to train community leaders and deactivate “malicious” information affecting Latino voters.

Mexico’s President López Obrador announced a new plan to fight inflation and an agreement with producers and distributors of groceries to avoid price increases. This and other stories are discussed with political analysts.

La votación en ausencia ya comenzó en muchos estados rumbo a las elecciones de noviembre. Esta edición de la serie especial “Hacia el Voto 2022” presenta una entrevista con la abogada de derechos civiles Rochelle Garza, la candidata demócrata que compite por ser la primera procuradora general latina en Texas. La carrera está reñidísima. Además, en la vecina Arizona, la carrera a la gubernatura está también en un empate virtual. Ambas candidatas están invitadas a participar en este programa.

On National Hispanic Heritage Month, a group of Latino parents are coordinating community events around the nation to highlight the heavy impact air pollution and climate change are having on the health of Latino children. communities. A leading member of this effort discusses what the recently enacted Inflation Reduction Act means for Latino families and their efforts to engage Latino voters in battleground states. Also, another guest analyst talks about the poverty hotspots, as hunger is on the rise in the US.

The updated booster shot rollout had a slow start but demand for the new vaccine is picking up in the US. CDC recommends that everyone over 12 gets an updated booster for Omicron subvariants. Public health officials encourage people to get this extra layer of protection against infection and severe illness, as they expect another Covid wave this winter. Should you get it? When? A medical expert answers these and other questions.

Local election officials around the nation are fearful and leaving their jobs after months of violent threats and harassment from Trump followers who promote false claims about voter fraud. In response, some states are rushing legislation and congressional leaders are pushing for protections for election workers and measures to increase criminal penalties against perpetrators of attacks. Analysts comment on the political impact of the unprecedented attacks.

Latinos are entering this midterm election as the second largest group of voters in the US and among the fastest-growing voter block. Will they flex their political muscle? A well-known think tank polled Latinos public opinion to find out their views of the political parties and of key issues, including abortion, gun policy, climate change and immigration. Listeners are encouraged to discuss these findings on the air.

Just days ahead of the deadline, California Gov. Newsom signed a number of bills allowing immigrants to gain access to more social services and protections, including allowing state IDs, expanding farm worker union rights, raising wages for fast food workers, expanding paid family leave to low-wage workers, and allowing vendors to sell food on streets. He also signed into law a plan requiring California schools to serve only domestic-made foods. He also vetoed a bill providing unemployment benefits for undocumented workers. Journalists explain details about those pieces of legislation.

A panel of judges in California ruled that GEO could block from going into effect a state law signed in 2019 which banned private prisons and private immigration centers in the state, allowing the centers to remain open. Advocates are angry that the Biden administration is siding with companies with a track record of abuse in this Trump-era lawsuit. In other news, a group of US senators led by US Sen. Alex Padilla introduced a bill updating the “Registry,” in order to allow immigrants who have lived seven years in the country to apply for green cards.

Republican Gov. Greg Abbott and his Democratic contender Beto O’Rourke face off in their first and only gubernatorial debate. The high-stakes event takes place at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in South Texas, a major battleground for the Latino vote, which is expected to play a key role in this heated race. This program showcases highlights of the debate and perspective from analysts on both sides.

Fifty years after young Chicano activists in the 60s and 70s staged walkouts in schools of East Los Angeles, launched the Plan de Santa Barbara to create Chicana/o Studies in colleges and universities and fought for bilingual education, scholars and education activists meet in San Bernardino to pay tribute to movement veterans who fought those battles. The conference also focuses on the critical issues of the 21st Century for Latinos in education, including the fight against the school-to-prison pipeline, the challenges for ESL students, the Dreamers, funding for public schools in Latino communities, and the right to education.

Mexico proposed the United Nations to create a group to mediate for peace in Ukraine and deal with current international tensions. Mexico also called to reform the Security Council in order to limit the veto powers and the current paralysis. Also, on the eight anniversary of the disappearance of 43 students from Ayotzinapa, analysts comment on the renewed calls for justice. This and other news are discussed in this edition.

More than 185,000 undocumented people in California are now eligible for Medi-Cal due to recent policy changes. But even though they can benefit from doctor checkups, early diagnosis and preventive care, many Latinos are not enrolling. Now health care authorities are reaching out to them. A medical expert explains.

As record-breaking heat waves exploded in California, Gov. Newsom signed a law to establish a first-in-the-nation heatwave ranking and warning system to protect communities that are most at risk to these deadly climate threats. The law would also improve access to insurance for climate-related threats. The top sponsor of the legislation explains the new law.

California could determine the control of the US House and its leadership. While Democrats in the state lost four seats to Republican candidates in 2020, the new political map may turn some Republican-controlled districts into swing districts. Republicans are aggressively courting the Latino vote in Southern California, warning that people are fleeing Democratic policies in California in a “mass exodus” to Republican-run states. Democrats are investing in Latino media warning that Republicans will cut taxes to the wealthy and jeopardize health care and social programs for working families. This edition of “Hacia el Voto 2022” includes an interview with civil...

A Program Repeat. On the national month of awareness of Polycystic Kidney Disease, a distinguished expert talks about the symptoms of this rare kidney disease. In the most common type, the kidney function worsens, eventually leading to kidney failure and possible dialysis or kidney transplant. Often patients are misdiagnosed and treatment delayed. A leading, Harvard-educated nephrologist talks about PKD and other common kidney diseases, including who is most at risk and how to prevent it.

As Florida Governor Ron DeSantis warns that he will continue transporting more migrants from border states, lawyers representing migrants flown to the island of Martha’s Vineyard filed a lawsuit asking for a criminal investigation, accusing DeSantis of deliberately tricking a group of nearly 50 people to board a plane from San Antonio. In another news, political analysts discuss Latino voter trends and developments in the immigration area that may impact the 2022 midterm elections.

As Latinos commemorate historic struggles in the civil and human rights arena 50 years ago, academic leaders gather at CSU San Bernardino to examine the road traveled in the quest for equity in education. Instead of remembering those movements with nostalgia, veterans propose to address the current reality of widespread abuse and discrimination against immigrants and indigenous communities and the ever elusive dream of equity in education. How are veterans passing the baton to the next generation?

After meeting in Mexico City, White House cabinet members and President López Obrador highlighted the big opportunities opened by the multi-billion US investment in semiconductor and chip production and Mexico’s plans to make the state of Sonora a leader in lithium, a key component of batteries for electric vehicles. Analysts comment on this and on López Obrador’s proposal to create a mediation commission at the UN that would facilitate peace talks between Russia and Ukraine.

On the 50th anniversary of La Raza Unida Party, veterans of the Chicano movement gathered in San Antonio, TX, to reflect on the early days of the push to fight discrimination, to use the vote as a voice, and to elect Mexican Americans to office. They also share memories of the 1970 Uvalde student walkout and comment on the repercussions of the recent school shooting in Uvalde.

Latino students attending community colleges face a number of pressures, including the soaring costs of living. As they struggle, community college leaders reach out to inform on recent changes to financial aid programs, including changes to Cal Grant and more support for full-time students to help them pay for the costs of college.

Latino voters in Colorado are feeling the pinch of rising prices and are anxious about their future financial situation. They also fear for their kids being victims of mass shootings at school. With these concerns in mind, Latinos could be a decisive force in one of the most competitive House districts in the nation, where a candidate is vying to  become the first Latina Congresswoman. They could also sway the close US Senate race. And while a large majority say they are ready to vote in November, many say they have not been contacted by any candidate, party representative or...

On the national month of awareness of Polycystic Kidney Disease, a distinguished expert talks about the symptoms of this rare kidney disease. In the most common type, the kidney function worsens, eventually leading to kidney failure and possible dialysis or kidney transplant. Often patients are misdiagnosed and treatment delayed. A leading, Harvard-educated nephrologist talks about PKD and other common kidney diseases, including who is most at risk and how to prevent it.

As Dreamers’ future is still in limbo, a conservative court is expected to rule any day now on DACA. A ruling against the program may impact millions of families, the midterm elections, and the Supreme Court. An analyst discusses the ramifications of this case. In another story, Republican governors from border states keep sending buses to drop off migrants now at the home of Vice President Harris and chartered flights to Martha’s Vineyard. Finally, the White House hosted a summit to address the effects of hate violence on democracy and public safety. An advocate discusses the white nationalist conspiracy theories...

As record-breaking heat waves exploded in California, Gov. Newsom signed a law to establish a first-in-the-nation heatwave ranking and warning system to protect communities that are most at risk to these deadly climate threats. The law would also improve access to insurance for climate-related threats. The top sponsor of the legislation explains the new law.

On the first day of the reunion in San Antonio, TX, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of La Raza Unida Party, veterans of the Chicano movement talk about the impact LRUP had on Mexican-American communities in the Southwest and around the US, and the efforts by the new generation to fight for better representation. Uvalde parents and advocates will be attending this event in neighboring San Antonio to discuss issues of civic participation.

Hundreds of political leaders and civil rights activists are expected to convene today in San Antonio, TX, for a three-day reunion to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding of La Raza Unida Party. The first national convention of the party was in El Paso in 1972. After ten years it was dissolved, leaving a legacy of electoral empowerment. The conference will celebrate the legacy, examine the current situation, and discuss passing the torch to the new guard.

California is being hit by a record-breaking heat wave and dangerous wildfires. Los Angeles, a city with too much asphalt and too few trees, is the most vulnerable to extreme heat. What is Los Angeles’ recently appointed heat officer doing to respond to the deadly threat of the heat wave? What is she doing to help protect vulnerable populations from heat illness and death?

Latino students attending community colleges face a number of pressures, including the soaring costs of living. As they struggle, community college leaders reach out to inform on recent changes to financial aid programs, including changes to Cal Grant and more support for full-time students to help them pay for the costs of college.

The Biden administration announced a new “public charge” regulation that includes critical protections to secure immigrant families’ access to health care and social services. What are those protections? An immigrant advocate  from Denver explains the new federal rule and dispels the fears. She also comments on the recent plan in Colorado to open access to healthcare for some undocumented, including expanding Medicaid to include undocumented pregnant women and their children. In other news, Democrats in the House introduced a bill that would allow undocumented immigrants to apply for residency after seven years in the country by updating a line in...

After two years of virtual independence celebrations due to the Covid pandemic, this year Mexico’s President López Obrador will shout the traditional “Grito de Dolores” before a live crowd in Mexico City’s main square. Relatives of international iconic social justice leaders have been invited to the celebration. This program includes a news report and analysis on Mexico’s national celebration.