¡Hola Familia!

We hope your semester is off to a great start! We’re reaching out not just with updates but also with ways we can support our comunidad in the face of ongoing challenges. Right now, multiple crises are impacting Latine communities, and we want to make sure OLA is a space for both awareness and action.

California Wildfires & Incarcerated Firefighters

California is once again battling devastating wildfires, displacing families and communities, particularly in Latinx and Indigenous areas. Many of the firefighters risking their lives on the frontlines are incarcerated individuals—many of whom are Latinx—who earn as little as $5.80 an hour while fighting these fires. This ongoing exploitation raises urgent questions about labor rights, rehabilitation, and systemic inequities in the prison system.

Immigration Crackdowns & Policy Updates

The U.S. government is increasing immigration enforcement, leading to a rise in deportations and detentions. Many Latinx families, including DACA recipients and asylum seekers, are facing uncertainty as policies continue to shift. It’s more important than ever to stay informed and support organizations advocating for immigrant rights. If you or someone you know needs legal or advocacy resources, we’ve added immigration rights resources to our Linktree.

🌟 Upcoming Events 🌟

EVENT Sueños y Éxitos: A Vision for the New Year Thursday, January 30 5:00pm - 6:00pm MCC C-101 Add to Google Cal,Outlook,Yahoo,iCal Start your year with intention and creativity at OLA’s vision board and reflection event! Join us as we craft personalized vision boards, design meaningful journals, and decorate picture frames to capture your dreams and goals for the year ahead. Whether you’re focusing on personal growth, career milestones, or simply manifesting good vibes, this event will help you set your intentions and bring your aspirations to life. Let’s kick off the new year with inspiration and creativity! RSVP

EVENT Amor en una Bolsa: Valentine's Day Event Thursday, February 13 5:00pm - 6:00pm MCC C-101 Add to Google Cal,Outlook,Yahoo,iCal 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! RSVP

EVENT Tote-ally You! : Tote Decorating Thursday, February 27 5:00pm - 6:00pm MCC C-101 Add to Google Cal,Outlook,Yahoo,iCal 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! RSVP

Stay Connected

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

How We Can Help

Donate or spread the word about organizations supporting wildfire victims & incarcerated firefighters:

• California Community Foundation Wildfire Relief Fund – Direct aid for displaced families.
• California Fire Foundation – Provides financial relief to victims & firefighters.
• Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program (FFRP) – Helps formerly incarcerated firefighters find careers.

Officers

Simmons University Organización Latinoamericana
ola@simmons.edu