Latine Inspiring Transformation (LIT)

Members of Encuentros including Pitzer Students, Day laborers from the PEOC and Faculty

Latine Inspiring Transformation (LIT) is a new Racial Justice Program designed to empower local Latine communities and organizations working within the community through dialogue and collaboration. LIT builds upon foundational work of Encuentros, a program started over 15 years ago by Professor Emeritus Jose Calderon in partnership with the day laborers (jornaleros) from the Pomona Economic Opportunity Center (PEOC), Pitzer students, and the Community Engagement Center.

Dia de los Muertos Altar 2024 — LSU Dia de los Muertos Altar in Scott Hall, November 2024. Photo Credit: Jack Contreras

Program Information

Encuentros is a biweekly lunch meeting between day laborers (jornaleros) from the Pomona Economic Opportunity Center (PEOC), Pitzer/Claremont College students, faculty and CEC staff members.

Program + Engagement Examples

The CEC has a long standing relationship with working with members of the PEOC and providing support for the men and women working through the center. The CEC, students and faculty have provided the following over the years:

ESL (English as a Second Language) classes
Computer classes
Annual Food Drive
Fernando Pedraza Memorial support

Every fall semester the students in LSU, along with Pitzer community members, and the CEC create a community altar in Scott Hall. With collaboration from the CEC, LSU hosts a "Dia de los Muertos" celebration, inviting students, staff, faculty and community to participate in ceremony, breaking bread and a performance. Community members are also encouraged to bring photos of their beloved to add to the ever growing altar.

Latine Inspiring Transformation Program Support

Jack Contreras

Office Manager for Community Engagement

Jackie_Contreras@pitzer.edu

(909) 607-8183

Scott Hall 108

Jessica Chairez

Assistant Director of Community Engagement

Jessica_Chairez@pitzer.edu

(909) 607-8183

Scott Hall 108 B