La Brega: A 1902 Deportation Case That Reverberates Today

La Brega: A 1902 Deportation Case That Reverberates Today

Author: My Cultura, Futuro and iHeartPodcasts March 22, 2026 Duration: 43:13

In 1902, Isabel González arrived in Ellis Island, pregnant, alone and with only $11.00 in her pocket. She —like others before her— was detained for being an "alien" and at risk of becoming a "burden" on the state. But Isabel took her fight to the courts, defending her right to stay in the country that had invaded her homeland just four years earlier. She fought all the way to the Supreme Court where she argued for citizenship. In this excerpt from Futuro Studios’ series “La Brega” we learn about her legacy, and about a more recent similar challenge. 

Original episode art by Elizabeth Barreto. You can find her Instagram page here: https://www.instagram.com/cookingood/

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For decades, Latino USA has offered a vital and nuanced soundscape, chronicling the multifaceted lives of Latino communities across the United States and beyond. Guided by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa, this Peabody Award-winning program digs deep, moving beyond headlines to share intimate narratives and investigative reports that reveal the cultural, political, and social currents shaping our world. As the longest-running radio show of its kind, it has built a legacy of trust and depth, exploring everything from personal identity and family legacy to immigration policy and artistic innovation. Each episode feels like a necessary conversation, one that illuminates the hearts and minds of a dynamic population whose stories are often filtered through someone else's lens. Here, those stories are told with authenticity and care. Produced by My Cultura, Futuro and iHeartPodcasts, this podcast is an essential listen for anyone seeking to understand the complex tapestry of contemporary society. The weekly installments are more than just reporting; they are documentary pieces that capture the ongoing impact of Latino voices. For those who wish to engage further, the Futuro+ membership offers additional content and behind-the-scenes perspectives, supporting the independent journalism at the core of this essential program.
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