KQED's Forum

Pranav Dixit, a Business Insider reporter focusing on tech and immigration, discusses the chaos following Trump's hefty new H-1B visa fee. Tanay Gokhale, a journalist covering the Bay Area Indian community, highlights the panic felt by immigrant communities and the long-term uncertainties faced. Immigration attorney Emily Neumann offers legal insights into the implications of the fee, potential exemptions, and the likelihood of litigation. Together, they explore how the tech industry's hiring landscape might change amidst this upheaval.

Shadi Hamid, a Washington Post columnist focused on U.S. politics, and Jeremy W. Peters, a National reporter for The New York Times specializing in free speech, dissect the aftermath of Charlie Kirk's killing. They discuss how influential Republicans are using grief for political gain while undermining democratic norms. Hamid highlights the jarring contrast between Kirk’s widow’s forgiveness and Trump’s aggressive rhetoric. They also explore the implications of zero-sum politics and the need for a national dialogue to strengthen democracy and free speech.

Christina Cross, an associate professor of sociology at Harvard University and author of "Inherited Inequality," delves into the misconceptions surrounding family structure and racial inequality. She challenges the notion that two-parent households are solely responsible for children's success, highlighting systemic issues like discrimination in housing and education. Cross discusses how the Moynihan Report shaped policies that unfairly target Black families and emphasizes the significant role of income in opportunity gaps. Her insights reveal the necessity of a broader understanding of family dynamics in addressing racial disparities.

Elissa Miolene, a global development reporter, discusses the devastating effects of USAID program cuts on humanitarian aid. Hana Kiros from The Atlantic highlights the 'fire sale' of abandoned assets and how partner nations are scrambling to cope with the sudden loss. Carson Cristiano, executive director of CEGA, emphasizes the dangers of lost data and the long-term impact these cuts pose for global health efforts. Together, they paint a stark picture of America's retreat from its crucial role in international development.

In this engaging discussion, Kate Gordon, CEO of California Forward and former energy policy official, dives into place-based development strategies alongside Mathew Bogoshian, Executive Director of AMCC, who sheds light on rebuilding manufacturing capacity and workforce ecosystems. Adhiti Bandlamudi, a KQED reporter, offers insight into local reactions to California Forever's ambitious plan for a new manufacturing town in Solano County. The conversation explores the evolution of manufacturing, environmental concerns, and the promise of regional economic revitalization.

Nick Ortega and Emma Maidenberg, the creative minds behind the synth-pop duo PRXZM, dive into their unique fan-driven approach to music. They share how their Twitch livestreams foster authentic interactions, allowing fans to influence their compositions. The duo also discusses the thrilling remix of the Forum theme song, blending disco vibes with a personal touch. Plus, they reveal the story behind their formation and how they engage their community through innovative musical challenges. Tune in for insights into their artistic journey!

Marisa Lagos, a KQED politics correspondent, Tom Hudson, president of news at WLRN, and Jasmine Garst, an NPR immigration correspondent, dive into the contrasting immigration policies of California and Florida. They discuss DeSantis's aggressive enforcement tactics compared to Newsom’s sanctuary laws. The conversation highlights the impact of these policies on labor shortages in agriculture, family dynamics, and education, revealing how communities are navigating the complexities of immigration enforcement amidst shifting political landscapes.

Joining the discussion are Nigel Duara, a justice reporter with a focus on California's criminal justice policy; Heather Harris, a research fellow specializing in criminal justice; and Caitlin O'Neill, a principal fiscal analyst. They explore California's dramatic decrease in prison population, driven by new policies and courtroom mandates. The conversation highlights the implications of prison closures on local communities, budgetary savings, and evolving rehabilitation opportunities, along with the rationale behind shifts in parole and sentencing policies.

Join Peter Hartlaub, a savvy culture critic from the San Francisco Chronicle, and Pendarvis 'Pen' Harshaw, arts columnist at KQED, as they dive into the hidden gems of the Bay Area. They discuss the fantastic Doors Open California program, encouraging locals to explore historic sites and underappreciated attractions. From quirky spots like the Albany Bulb to scenic ferry rides, they reveal the joys of being a tourist in your own backyard. This lively conversation inspires a new appreciation for local adventures.

Join law professor Ahilan Arulanantham, California Attorney General Rob Bonta, immigration advocate Marissa Montes, and journalist Andrea Castillo as they unpack the ramifications of a recent Supreme Court ruling on ICE arrests. They discuss the heightened fears among immigrant communities in Los Angeles and the potential for increased racial profiling. The guests share insights on state legal strategies, the on-the-ground impact of raids, and how people can support affected families amid ongoing changes in immigration enforcement.