Old Art Building talk examines “Immigration in America: What the Data Really Shows”

From staff reports

Immigration is one of the most talked-about and divisive issues in America. Separating headlines from facts can feel overwhelming. On Thursday, April 9, from 5:30-7:30 pm at the Old Art Building in Leland, community members are invited to a free discussion that uses data to cut through confusion and show what the numbers actually say. The program is presented in partnership with Mobile Pathways, an award-winning technology nonprofit whose immigration analysis has been featured by major outlets in the United States and abroad and recognized internationally for its impact.

Immigration in America: What the Data Really Shows will feature Bartlomiej Skorupa, co-founder and chief operating officer of Mobile Pathways and local resident, presenting evidence-based insights drawn directly from federal immigration datasets and real-time trends. Attendees will hear a 45-minute presentation followed by a 45-minute audience Q&A.

“In an era of immigration disinformation, grounding our conversation in facts matters more than ever,” said Skorupa. “We will look at what is really happening, and why it matters nationally and here in Michigan.”

Mobile Pathways is a technology nonprofit that builds data and AI tools to help immigration attorneys, legal aid organizations, journalists, and advocates make sense of fast-changing immigration trends and focus on what is actually happening. Their work has been featured locally and internationally, including coverage by the Associated Press, The Guardian, CNN, The Leelanau Enterprise, 9 and 10 News, and The Wall Street Journal.

Recently accepted into the London School of Economics Global 100X Accelerator, Mobile Pathways is now sharing immigration insights at a global level, further expanding the reach and impact of its work.

During the talk, Skorupa will: examine what federal data reveals about current immigration trends; address common myths and misinformation; explain how data connects to real policy choices and community impacts; offer ideas for strengthening fairness and transparency in the immigration system.

This event is free and open to the public, though registration is required. Doors open at 5:30 pm. The presentation begins at 6, and a Q&A follows at 6:45 PM.