Dr. Lizette Solis is an inspiring woman who has worked with one of the largest human rights organizations in the U.S. She is now part of the executive team at the largest stand alone psychiatric hospital in Chicago while also being the only Latina. She's been the boots on the ground as a social worker, teacher, supervisor and now an International Psychologist. She currently heads a youth program while also working on various international projects.
Take a listen as she gives us her take on immigration in the U.S. and migrant youth as well as why she chose International Psychology and how this type of meaningful work has fulfilled her. This podcast also gives some insight as to the friendship between Sol and Lizette who have worked together and maintained a long distance friendship over time in support of their individual journeys towards humanitarian focused work. Lizette has been a solid point of reference for Sol as she's followed the often complicated struggle if immigrants. We hope it will inform and inspire you!
What you will hear in this episode
Dr. Solis’s work as an international psychologist and her work with immigrant families, women and children. How her upbringing and own identity motivated her interest in creating a space of healing and support for immigrants, especially immigrant women and children.
The experience and struggles of an immigrant working to find a better life. The trauma they’ve dealt and the process of starting anew in a new place
The contributions of the immigrant communities and their incredible resilience while facing adversity.
Dr. Solis’s work with the Heartland Alliance being instrumental in guiding her to her current line of work. Dr. Solis worked with unaccompanied children and worked closely with Red Cross, local human rights organizations, legal organizations and faith based organizations.
Human rights international laws and the practice of the policies in place for immigrants at the border between Mexico and US
Human trafficking networks and the risk that they present with migration
Immigrant’s impactful contributions to the US
The immigrant gang issue, the creation of these gangs and networks as a result of their migration experiences.
Putting in to practice the immigration laws that are put in place to help people seeking asylum
What you can do to help the organizations that are trying to care for the children and mothers who are seeking asylum
The importance of treating immigrants humanely
The trauma experienced by children and families
What happens when a child is separated from their family?
The traumatic experiences of the children who have been separated from their families
Dr. Solis’s works in progress raising awareness about mental health and well being locally and internationally.
https://www.heartlandalliance.org/
https://www.islaurbana.org
https://riveredgehospital.com/
