Define American with Jose Antonio Vargas
In a time of increasing uncertainty for millions of immigrants, Define American with Jose Antonio Vargas is the source for news and conversation about immigration in America today, including politics, media, culture, personal stories, breaking news, and more.
Misinformation and political rhetoric have long shaped immigration debates, but this show cuts through the noise to provide real, unfiltered conversations about what it means to be an immigrant in today’s America.
YouTube Show and Podcast Explores Immigrant Experience over the Coming Four Years
Through candid discussions with experts, advocates, politicians, artists, journalists, and stakeholders, Pulitzer-Prize-winning journalist Jose Antonio Vargas breaks down policies, challenges misconceptions, and explores what’s at stake for millions of immigrants across the country. Jose also brings his personal experience into the conversation, having lived for 31 years as an undocumented immigrant in the U.S.
Guests include:
Maria Hinojosa, Journalist
Legendary Mexican American journalist Maria Hinojosa, founder of Futuro Media and anchor of Latino USA, reveals the challenges of covering immigration in the Trump era and why the media must do better.
Yosimar Reyes, Poet & Artist
Yosimar Reyes, the first undocumented poet laureate of Santa Clara County and artist-in-residence at MACLA, shares how he uses art as a powerful tool for resistance, self-expression, and survival in an America that often denies immigrants their humanity.
Gene Wu, Texas State Representative
Texas State Rep. Gene Wu, chair of the Texas House Democratic Caucus, sheds light on the economic impact of undocumented workers and why mass deportations are both impractical and harmful. Representing one of Texas’ most immigrant-rich districts, he unpacks the dangers of anti-immigrant rhetoric and the urgent need for communities to stand up for immigrant rights.
Why Nuanced Immigrant Stories Matter
At Define American, we believe stories shape culture—and culture shapes policy. This show elevates nuanced immigrant narratives, challenging stereotypes and reclaiming our dignity. It ensures that when America decides who belongs, we are the ones defining the conversation.
In the face of deportations and division, the question remains: How do you define American?