Pressing Onward: The Imperative Resilience of Latina Migrant Mothers

Pressing Onward is a documentary that showcases the resilience of migrant mothers who migrated from Latin America, settled in New Haven, Connecticut, and overcame trauma and adversity to build futures for their children. It explores the impacts of immigration enforcement and healthcare inequality on these mothers and highlights their persistence amid long-standing structural violence.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 244 pages
Publication date: 11 April 2023
Publisher: University of California Press

In the heart of New Haven, Connecticut, a vibrant community thrives, where the stories of resilient mothers who have migrated from Latin America unfold. These courageous women have faced countless challenges, from the trauma of displacement to the ongoing adversities they encounter in their new home. Yet, they refuse to be defeated. With unwavering determination, they employ cognitive and social strategies to combat racial, economic, and gender-based oppression, striving to create a better future for their children. Their resilience is a testament to the human spirit's enduring power.

"Pressing Onward" delves into the lives of these migrant mothers, offering a contemporary perspective on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on racially minoritized populations. It sheds light on the struggles they face, from job insecurity to limited access to healthcare. Through ethnographic research, the film weaves a broader narrative of persistence amidst long-standing structural violence.

These migrant mothers are not alone in their journey. They are part of a larger community that has come together to support and uplift one another. Community organizations, religious institutions, and grassroots initiatives provide resources, education, and advocacy to help these families navigate the complexities of their new lives.

Despite the obstacles they face, these mothers remain optimistic about the future. They believe that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and that their children can achieve anything they set their minds to. They work tirelessly to provide their children with a quality education, whether it means navigating the school system, seeking additional tutoring, or advocating for policies that support immigrant families.

Moreover, these migrant mothers are agents of change in their communities. They participate in advocacy efforts, speak out against discrimination, and work to build a more inclusive and equitable society. They serve as role models for their children, teaching them the values of resilience, hard work, and compassion.

"Pressing Onward" is a powerful film that sheds light on the experiences of these resilient mothers. It serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience of the human spirit, even in the face of adversity. It encourages us to embrace diversity, support one another, and work towards a more just and equitable world.

In conclusion, the stories of these migrant mothers who have migrated from Latin America to New Haven, Connecticut, are a testament to the power of resilience and determination. They have overcome trauma and adversity to build futures for their children, enacting imperative resilience and engaging cognitive and social strategies to resist racial, economic, and gender-based oppression. Their journey is a reminder of the importance of community support, education, and advocacy in creating a better future for all. As we continue to navigate the challenges of our time, let us draw inspiration from the resilience of these migrant mothers and work together to build a more inclusive and equitable world.

Weight: 338g
Dimension: 227 x 153 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520394018