Let's Talk New Mexico 5/24 8a: Poverty is a persistent topic in New Mexico, from news coverage of the latest statistics to legislative hearings on proposals to address high poverty rates in our communities. Nearly 20 percent of New Mexicans are considered to be living in poverty according to the U.S. Census. Are these numbers accurately capturing the real experiences of people across the state? How can we talk about poverty differently, in a way that doesn't define people by their income? What do you think makes someone poor? Email LetsTalk@KUNM.org, tweet #LetsTalkNM, or call in live during the show.
The federal government started collecting data on poverty in the 1960s . Federal poverty guidelines determine whether you can sign up for some food and health benefits. It can also be a source of shame for some people. Join us for a complex conversation about the definition of poverty.
- What do you think makes someone poor?
- How can we talk about poverty differently, in away that doesn't define people by their income?
- Do you think there's a better way we could measure challenges and strengths in communities beyond income?
- What are potential new solutions for addressing poverty in New Mexico?
Guests:
- Dr. Nancy Lopez, associate professor, Sociology Department, UNM; director and co-founder of the Institute for the Study of "Race" and Social Justice
- Moises Gonzales, assistant professor, Community and Regional Planning, UNM; director for the Resource Center for Raza Planning
- Shayla Alves, member of OLÉ New Mexico
- Gina Dennis, attorney, tribal law, member of OLÉ New Mexico