From: Organizacion Latinoamericana Date: February 12 Subject: OLA Newsletter 02/12
OLA newsletter
12, FEBRUARY 2025
¡Hola Familia!
This past Tuesday, we held space for our community with our support group. Even if you couldn’t make it, know that OLA is always here to uplift and support one another. Our community is built on solidarity, and we’re grateful to have this space with you all.
Our Statement
The recent ICE raids in Boston have left many of us feeling a mix of fear, anger, and heartbreak. These raids don’t just affect individuals; they impact families, friends, and entire communities. They instill fear where there should be safety and create division where there should be unity.
At OLA, our mission is all about building community, support, and advocacy for Latinx students at Simmons, OLA stands in full solidarity with immigrants. We stand with those who are directly affected, with those who are worried about their loved ones, and with everyone who feels the weight of these actions. No one should have to live in fear of being taken from their home, their community, or their future.
To our immigrant peers: You belong here. You are valued, you are loved, and you are not alone. OLA will always be a safe and supportive space. Whether you need resources or just a place to be, we are here for you.
Now more than ever, we need to uplift one another, speak out, and support our community. If you’re looking for ways to help or need support yourself, don’t hesitate to reach out. We are stronger together
Valentine’s Day Reminder: Take Care of YOU
Self-love is just as important as any other kind of love. Here are a few ways to take care of yourself this week:
Spend time with people who make you feel safe and valued.
Move your body in a way that feels good.
Write down three things you appreciate about yourself.
Unplug and take a break from screens.
Treat yourself to something that brings you joy.
However you choose to celebrate (or not), remember: you are loved and deserve care today and every day. 💗
🌟 Upcoming Events 🌟
All events are posted on Campus Connect, where you can find more details and register. You can also add our events calendar directly to your device to stay updated!
Celebrate the season of love with OLA by creating and sharing goodie bags filled with treats, self-care items, and thoughtful surprises! Whether you’re crafting a bag for a friend, a loved one, or yourself, this event is all about spreading kindness and joy in our community. Join us for a relaxing and fun evening of connection and creativity!
Join our Latine Support Group to discuss Bad Bunny's album "DtMF," and discuss the affect modern day colonialism has on our homelands. Open to all students, Latine or not.
Get crafty with OLA at this fun DIY event! Design and decorate your own tote bag to showcase your unique style and creativity. We’ll supply the bags, paints, stencils, and good vibes—just bring your imagination. Leave with a one-of-a-kind creation you can use every day!
Follow us on Instagram @Simmons_OLA and add us on Campus Connect to stay updated on events, announcements, and more. Don’t forget to add our events calendar to stay in the loop!
Con cariño,
OLA E-Board <3
Support a Local High School Student’s Research
A high school student in our community is conducting research and could use your help! They are surveying second-generation Puerto Rican immigrant college students in the Northeastern United States for an AP research paper. If you have a few minutes, please consider filling out their survey to contribute to their study: https://forms.gle/8wXgf9niUvKW5bC2A
Know Your Rights: ICE Raid Resources
We want to make sure our community stays informed and protected. If you or someone you know needs guidance on what to do in case of an ICE raid, check out these resources:
