Immigration is a complex issue; narrowing the concentration of the conversation to two topics- the policies we should have to address this and how illegal immigration should be addressed - helps people to focus their conversations. In terms of what could have been stronger, I would have liked more information under the "How We Got There" section about the political climate during 2007 when the proposed legislation was presented. More about reactions to this piece of legislation would have been helpful. I struggle to limit my option ideas to three approaches, but the ones in this guide reflect a broad enough range of perspectives for most people to see some of their views within these. I could see this guide leading to some productive conversations. The only other change I would recommend is in the Quotes to Consider section. All views on this page have a face, except for the view that notes a policy change needs to take place, resulting in less need for enforcement. In my opinion, a perspective with such a strong potential impact should have a face, not just an organizational statement associated with it.

This visioning component in session 2 of this guide has been particularly motivating in many of the communities I've worked with. The guide returns to a vision theme in session five as the dialogue participants begin planning to take action. The review of community assets and connection to the action ideas generated at this point is a powerful jump start on who and or what already exists to help the team get started., Session five prepares dialogue groups well in terms helping them to narrow their ideas to really doable deeds and presenting solid, realistic action ideas to the general public at the action forum that follows.

This guide, with final session much better developed in terms of helping communities prepare to take action, is a big step forward. A community I used this guide with appreciated how it takes the conversation about race past the 101 level. They particularly liked the community report card section. I have used this section of the Race Guide in conjunction with other guides addressing a broad range of issues. It has proven to be very insightful and effective within communities.

This guide needs updating to reflect the polarized stances and lack of action on the part of government to address immigration policy. That being said, I worked with a community that used this guide as a model, tailoring the views to reflect the circumstances and issues of concern to their area of the country. It provides a solid start point for a community willing to invest some time in updating sections to reflect today's situation and their area's particular issues.