Where Does Deportation Come From?
Historian Kelly Lytle Hernández and filmmaker Alex Rivera come together for a live conversation, film preview, and community gathering exploring the history and future of U.S. deportation.
Time & Location
Dec 13, 2025, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Bread & Salt, 1955 Julian Ave, San Diego, CA 92113, USA
About the event
The event is free and open to the public.
Learn more and RSVP here.
Zócalo Public Square is hosting an in-person event in San Diego titled “Where Does Deportation Come From?” at Bread & Salt in Barrio Logan. This program brings together historian and MacArthur Fellow Kelly Lytle Hernández and filmmaker and MacArthur Fellow Alex Rivera for a conversation about the long history of deportation in the United States and how it shapes the present. The event includes a preview screening of Rivera’s forthcoming film Banishment and a live reading by Lytle Hernández from the archival materials that informed the film. Together, they trace the origins of deportation laws, explore who has been targeted and why, and consider what the future of U.S. immigration enforcement may hold.
The evening also launches Zócalo’s new “Brewing Ideas” format, which pairs intimate one-on-one conversations with local gathering spaces. Attendees will receive a complimentary drink from Mujeres Brew House to enjoy during the program and are invited to stay for a post-event reception featuring small bites and a tasting experience. A collaborative silk-screening activity, offered with Athenaeum Art Center, will allow guests to take home a limited-edition poster by artist Lalo Alcaraz benefiting a local food bank. The event is free and open to the public as part of Zócalo’s statewide series, “What Connects California?”, marking the 175th anniversary of California’s statehood.campos para conversar sobre un tema crítico para el futuro del estado.
This event will include live Spanish audio interpretation during Kelly and Alex's conversation.
