Using This Guide

This guide is an invitation to dialogue. It is based on a belief in the power of human connection and designed for people who want to use La Casa de Mama Icha to engage family, friends, classmates, colleagues, and communities. In contrast to initiatives that foster debates in which participants try to convince others that they are right, this document envisions conversations undertaken in a spirit of openness in which people try to understand one another and expand their thinking by sharing viewpoints and listening actively.

The discussion prompts are intentionally crafted to help a wide range of audiences think more deeply about the issues in the film. Rather than attempting to address them all, choose one or two that best meet your needs and interests. And be sure to leave time to consider taking action. Planning next steps can help people leave the room feeling energized and optimistic, even in instances when conversations have been difficult.

For more support planning and facilitating your screening, visit POV’s Community Network.

Helpful Concepts & Definitions

Diaspora: a large group of people with a similar heritage or homeland who have since moved out to places all over the world.

Elder Agency: language referring to older people and their right and capability to fulfill their desires and to have choice in their lives

Emigration: to leave one’s own country of origin and settle in another country permanently

Immigration: to enter and settle in another country that is different from one’s country of origin

Migrant: a person who moves from one place to another, particularly in order to find work or different living conditions

Remittances: money or goods sent from migrants to their families in their home country