Federico Rios | Welcoming Newcomers - Ep. 88

On Life and Meaning

Federico Rios is the International Business and Immigrant Integration Manager for the City of Charlotte. His work focuses on community outreach and improving systems to help immigrant newcomers. Previously, Federico was program director for the Northeast Learning Community and Newcomer Services for Communities in Schools in Charlotte. He has several years experience serving as a mental health professional in Charlotte and in New York City. Federico is a board member of the Leading on Opportunity Council and Communities in Schools in Charlotte. He earned a bachelor of arts degree in English from the State University of New York at Stony Brook.

This episode is perfect for anyone interested in serving immigrant communities, false and true narratives, embracing a new city, and optimism about equity and justice.

IN THIS EPISODE

• Federico explains his role serving the immigrant and international business community in Charlotte and how his position came about.
• He notes how a dramatic shift in demographics has led to a need to better welcome newcomers and immigrants.
• He shares what he expected would be the immediate focus of his work and what his work has actually been.
• He addresses how his office is attending to the key recommendations of the Immigrant Integration Task Force Report
• Federico discusses a false narrative about immigrants and the part race plays in the response to undocumented residents.
• He answers whether he supports open borders and amnesty for undocumented residents and whether his views influence his work as a municipal employee.
• He shares what excites him about the work that he is doing.
• He talks about growing up in Queens, New York, and what his parents taught him.
• Federico talks about the person who helped him complete his college education after the tragedy of 9/11.
• He discusses how his career began, how he found his way to Charlotte, adjusting to a new community, and going through a difficult moment.
• He notes his experience at working at Communities in Schools.
• He answers whether he has an interest in public office and whether he is optimistic about equity and justice in America.
• Federico shares what is most important to him.

plus Mark’s Personal Word Essay: Out of Many

To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning