KQED's Forum

Hamed Aleaziz, an immigration policy reporter for The New York Times, dives into the Trump administration's tightening grip on legal migrants. He reveals alarming news about the termination of many immigrants' legal statuses and the wrongful classification of thousands as deceased, cutting off their access to vital services. The discussion sheds light on the impacts of harsh deportation strategies, the bureaucratic manipulation faced by migrants, and the economic repercussions for industries reliant on their labor, painting a stark picture of the current immigration landscape.

In this enlightening discussion, Vauhini Vara, a tech journalist and novelist renowned for her collection "Searches: Selfhood in the Digital Age," explores the profound intersections of technology and grief. She shares her experience of processing her sister's death through conversations with an early version of ChatGPT. The talk dives into how technology shapes personal identity and creativity, the ethical implications of AI in art, and the tension between human emotion and machine interaction. Vara prompts listeners to reflect on their own experiences with technology and self-expression.

In this enlightening discussion, Joe Kloc, a senior editor at Harper's Magazine and author of "Lost At Sea," shares insights from nearly a decade of documenting Sausalito's ‘anchor-out’ community. He explores the struggles faced by residents living on makeshift boats, as they navigate societal pressures and the challenges of urban development. Kloc highlights the diverse stories and supportive bonds within this unique lifestyle, while emphasizing the resilience of a community fighting for their right to exist amid rising living costs and increasing displacement threats.

Join personal finance expert Ramit Sethi, columnist Jessica Roy, and managing editor Susannah Snider as they unpack economic uncertainty. They discuss practical strategies to navigate fluctuating markets and rising inflation, emphasizing the importance of savings and investment diversification. The trio tackles the emotional toll of financial instability and offers advice on adapting plans as retirement approaches. They also highlight the significance of financial literacy and maintaining an emergency fund in these unpredictable times.

Colum McCann, a National Book Award-winning author known for his deep explorations of human connections, discusses his novel "Twist". He dives into the hidden world of underwater cables that underpin global communication and the threats of sabotage that loom over them. McCann reveals how his protagonist, a journalist, grapples with personal turmoil while addressing global dependencies on these cables. The conversation also reflects on identity, belonging, and the intricate relationships we maintain, both digitally and personally.

Janet Bishop, the chief curator at SFMOMA, co-curated the Ruth Asawa Retrospective, celebrating the artist's distinct crocheted wire sculptures and their evocative shadows. Andrea Jepson, a close friend of Asawa and muse for the fountain 'Andrea,' shares insights on their collaborative efforts in arts education. They discuss Asawa’s life journey, her roots in Black Mountain College, and her profound impact on the Bay Area art scene and educational initiatives, highlighting the blend of art and community in her legacy.

Marcia Brown, a food and agriculture reporter for Politico, Colin Carter, a distinguished professor of agricultural and resource economics at UC Davis, and Zach Pelka, co-founder of Une Femme wines, dive into the effects of tariffs and the trade war with China on California's farmers. They discuss the staggering losses in the almond industry and rising grocery prices. The conversation also highlights the urgent need for legislative support and the financial strain on farmers navigating the chaotic trade landscape, emphasizing the role of immigrant labor in this sector.

Viet Thanh Nguyen, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and USC professor, shares his journey as a refugee from Vietnam and the ongoing impact of the Vietnam War. He reflects on the trauma experienced by individuals and communities, emphasizing the resilience of the Vietnamese diaspora. Nguyen discusses lessons from the past, the cyclical nature of history, and the artistic legacy shaped by these experiences. His latest essay collection explores the role of artists in political discourse, shedding light on identity and cultural heritage.

Susie Neilson and Megan Fan Munce, reporters at The San Francisco Chronicle, dive deep into California's home insurance crisis. They reveal how major insurers are using faulty data, leaving many wildfire survivors underinsured when they need it most. Personal stories illustrate the emotional and financial toll on affected families. The discussion emphasizes the need for homeowners to reevaluate their coverage and highlights the importance of transparency and reform in the insurance industry.

In this discussion, Tyler TerMeer, CEO of the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, promotes harm reduction strategies. Keith Humphreys, a psychiatry professor at Stanford, delves into the implications of scaling back public access to clean smoking supplies. Sydney Johnson, a KQED News reporter, reveals how these policy shifts might increase risky behaviors among drug users. They explore the complexities of addiction, the need for comprehensive treatment options, and the balance between community perceptions and evidence-based practices.